Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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40. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he envisages new mechanisms to reward farmers for methane reduction in view of its recognised significant impact in the short-term climate challenge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60638/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I am hugely supportive of the need to support farmers in our ambition to reduce methane emissions from agriculture. However, it is crucial that we do this is a way that maintains food production.

Earlier this year I launched the Food Vision 2030 strategy which has signalled an intention to reduce methane emissions by 10% by 2030. This level of reduction will be needed to contribute to the sector's climate goals.

As outlined in the Climate Action Plan,the main way to reduce methane emissions from a pasture-based production system in the medium term is to transition the beef system to a system of earlier finishing of animals. Currently prime beef cattle are slaughtered at 27 months and this can be reduced to 24 months over the course of the decade.

This will require support for breeding improvements but also a critical engagement by the beef processing sector to encourage and support farmers to finish their animals earlier and I continue to engage with them on this important matter.

New technology will also play a role, I note with interest a feed additive to reduce methane emissions was recently approved by the European Food Safety Authority. As carbon farming models are developed across the EU over the coming years, there is no reason why methane cannot be part of this discussion.

The 2021 Climate Action plan includes a commitment by my Department to explore the development of a carbon farming model and I intend to progress this commitment. There are exciting innovations ahead and we must ensure that Irish agriculture is ready to take advantage of these opportunities.