Ryan O'Meara (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
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193. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the proposed early retirement scheme for farmers will be introduced; if an upper age limit of 70 years will be considered for the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36283/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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The new Programme for Government prioritises “supporting inter-generational farm succession”. Food Vision 2030, our shared strategy for the agri-food sector, states that generational renewal in farming is critically important to ensure the future viability and social sustainability of the Irish agri-food sector and of rural Ireland. While supporting young farmers and new entrants is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector, it is also important to consider the position of older and retiring farmers.

There are a number of supports for generational renewal currently available to farmers under Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027. These supports are complemented by a suite of strong national taxation measures to ensure a coherent approach.

Farm succession is a complex issue and there are many factors that impact farmers’ decisions. Last October, an independent Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming was established. The Commission is adopting an objective, evidence-based approach to examining all the complex factors involved. It is engaging closely with stakeholders, including a public consultation.

The Commission is making significant progress and I am expecting a report on policy options in the coming weeks, which will ensure that we have an objective analysis of the issue in advance of preparations for the next CAP.