Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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141. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the discussions he has had at European Union level regarding the need to provide assistance to farmers to mitigate the substantial increase in fertiliser costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26981/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Since the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, the situation on agricultural markets has been a constant agenda item at every Agri-Fish Council. I have outlined Ireland's strong support for EU sanctions to my European counterparts, as well as the particular need to maintain food security for our own citizens, for the Ukrainian people and in a wider international context.

I have also emphasised my particular concerns about the impacts of the conflict on agri-food supply chains, and especially on the supply of inputs such as fertiliser and feed.  As the situation is obviously a volatile and evolving one, I have stressed the need to continually assess developments from an EU perspective, and to be ready to take any necessary action. 

On 22nd March, the Government approved my proposal for a targeted intervention package for the tillage sector, as well as a multi-species sward and red clover initiative, worth over €12 million in total to Irish farmers. This package is aimed at producing more native crops while also reducing dependency on imported fertiliser. 

I have also established a National Fodder and Food Security Committee, which has been developing contingency plans in relation to the supply of feed, fodder, fertiliser and other inputs. It has also been giving farmers much needed practical advice in relation to the management of their enterprises, and will continue to do so over the coming months.

The European Commission announced on 23 March, via the communication “Safeguarding food security and reinforcing the resilience of food systems”, a range of actions to enhance global food security and to support farmers and consumers in the EU in light of rising food prices and input costs.  In this context I have secured exceptional aid supports of €15.8 million, which will be used to support farmers in the pigmeat and horticulture sectors.

I continue to work with my EU counterparts to monitor the situation closely, and to consider all appropriate measures.  The impact of the illegal invasion of Ukraine and its impact on our farm families is the number one priority for me and the Department.