Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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223. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans in relation to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15273/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The current situation in relation to the cost of fertilisers is a significant concern. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to significant hikes in energy prices and significant concerns around supply chain disruption.

I raised concerns in relation to the impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on agri-food supply chains, and especially on input costs at the extraordinary informal meeting of European Union Agriculture Ministers held on 2^ndMarch. I underlined the need for market support and the need to maintain supply chains and to ensure an effective and functioning Single Market. Commissioner Wojciechowski is aware of concerns and is considering the issue of necessary supports under the CMO Regulation.

At the AgriFish Council of 21 March, I asked the EU Commission, as part of its work on monitoring markets, to keep a very close eye on the issue of fertiliser availability across the EU and to be ready to consider any measures that may help to alleviate the difficulties caused.

I launched the 2022 Soils, Nutrients and Fertiliser Campaign at Teagasc’s Ballyhaise College on 26th January in response to the unprecedented fertiliser price levels. This is a credible roadmap that will help alleviate price pressures while helping farmers reduce their dependency on chemical fertiliser in the longer-term.

At a meeting of farm organisations on 8th March, I established a National Fodder and Food Security Committee to explore all options to minimise the impact on farms and plan in the short to medium term. This Group continues to meet and it is expected that its outcomes will be presented shortly.