Written answers

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Agriculture Schemes

Photo of Johnny MythenJohnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein)
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1845. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the lime scheme will be rolled out; if any of the €40 million that was set aside for this scheme has been allocated; the current situation regarding this scheme for farmers in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1520/23]

Photo of Charlie McConalogueCharlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Funding of €8 million was announced for a Liming Measure as part of Budget 2023.

Soil and environmental protection are key considerations for the Government. The Liming Measure is being introduced by my Department to incentivise the use of lime, a natural soil conditioner, which corrects soil acidity by neutralising the acids present in the soil and in turn allows for an improvement in overall soil health and biodiversity as well as improved nutrient use efficiency. This in turn facilitates a reduction in fertiliser use.

My officials are currently finalising the Terms and Conditions of the scheme which, subject to approval by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, is expected to open for applications in spring.

I hope to be in a position to announce further details regarding the measure in the coming weeks.

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