Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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180. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps that he is taking to encourage more farmers to produce organic beef. [26973/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The target in the current Programme for Government is to align the utilisable agricultural area under organic production in Ireland with the EU average of 7.5%,  The organic sector in Ireland is experiencing considerable growth at present with the area of land under organic production now at approximately 110,000 hectares.

We are encouraging farmers from all sectors including the beef sector to convert to organic farming. In this regard Teagasc are organising three farm walks which will take place in June that focus specifically on the Beef sector.  These events outline best practice and allow both organic and conventional farmers to see first hand the practicalities of organic beef production.  The events are publicised on both Teagasc and my Department's website. 

I am committed to continuing the implementation of the National Organic Strategy 2019-2025 which sets out ambitious growth targets for the beef sector by aligning it closely with the market opportunities. 

My Department, in conjunction with Bord Bia, is also undertaking a trade mission to Germany in July 2022 to coincide with Biofach, the largest organic trade fair in Europe.  This will enable organic client companies to build new business and generate new leads and ensure that all efforts are undertaken to expand the export market for Irish Organic produce.  

A budget of €21 million was allocated to the Organic Farming Scheme in 2022, an increase of €5 million from the previous year.  I have introduced changes to the scheme by reducing the required stocking rate and also by increasing the area paid at the higher rate from 60 hectares to 70 hectares, measures which I believe will encourage new entrants to organic farming.  

For the years 2023 – 2027, I have proposed an allocation of €256m under the new CAP to continue the development and growth of the organic sector.

We have also provided funding to the Agricultural Consultants Association to increase Advisory support in the sector and Teagasc are also in the process of recruiting further personnel to their Organic Farming Advisory Service. This will ensure farmers have access to professional advice to aid in the important decision making process. 

The Organic Strategy forum has met twice in 2022 and the theme of the most recent meeting on 19 May 2022 was “Driving participation in Organic Farming”.  Our aim is to increase the overall participation in Organic farming and ensure that all sectors are supported equally.