Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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1202. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has considered the environmental value of the hemp sector in the context of IPCC climate transition pathways carrying the highest co-benefits, including for human health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52490/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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While there has been significant research carried out on the cultivation of hemp in Ireland, mainly by Teagasc at its Oakpark Research Centre, this research has focused on the use of hemp as a source of fibre and as an energy crop. The environmental benefits have not therefore been confirmed through Irish based research which is a key requirement needed to inform agricultural policy.

However, my Department is working to remedy this and has recently approved a European Innovation Partnership (EIP) application called “Hemp4Soil” under the Farm & Community Biodiversity Initiative which will look at aspects primarily concerned with soil health.

It should be noted that the growing of hemp, which is included as an eligible crop under the Basic Payment Scheme, is subject to specific licence granted by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), which operates under the auspices of the Department of Health and is restricted to certain varieties due to the presence the narcotic compound Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

In addition, there is a commitment contained in the Programme for Government (PFG) to "fully explore the potential for growing fibre crops such as hemp, considering whether these crops have a viable market". To fulfil this commitment, my Department is currently conducting a consultative process by engaging with the relevant stakeholders.