Robert O'Donoghue (Dublin Fingal West, Labour)
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101. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will acknowledge the increasing impact of the climate crisis on Irish farmers (details supplied); the measures being taken to support small and family farms facing growing challenges; if he will consider rebalancing supports to promote local and sustainable food systems, ensuring that farmers can make a fair living while supplying their own communities rather than being forced into an export-driven model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55121/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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I fully acknowledge the challenges Irish farmers face due to climate impacts, including the persistent heavy rainfall that affected crop yields and working conditions in 2024. The Government is committed to ensuring that family farms remain viable, resilient, and central to Ireland’s sustainable food system.

Ireland’s agri-food strategy, Food Vision 2030, was developed by the agri-food sector for the sector, adopting a food systems approach, with an ambition for Ireland to be a “World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems”.

Each of the strategies four missions has ambitious goals, rooted in a strongly practical approach to what needs to be achieved for future environmental, economic and social sustainability. Actions under Mission 2, in particular, aim to strengthen farm incomes, support diversification, and improve social sustainability.

Farm incomes rebounded strongly in 2024. Average Family Farm Income rose by 87% to €35,937, with further growth forecast for 2025, driven by higher output prices and reduced input costs. My Department continues to rebalance supports toward resilience and sustainability through the €9.8 billion CAP Strategic Plan, which helps fund the transition to sustainable practices while maintaining farm incomes. This is supplemented by additional targeted schemes solely funded by the Exchequer on an annual basis.

I recognise the importance of sustainable supply chains and local markets, and am committed to supporting these through a range of programmes across Government Departments. The Bord Bia Origin Green programme, LEADER funding and continued investment in the bioeconomy and farm diversification measures support farmers to supply their own communities, while retaining Ireland’s strong export base that underpins rural employment and national income.

Ireland’s agri-food policy is not about choosing between local and export production but ensuring both are viable and sustainable. The Government remains firmly committed to supporting farm families to adapt to climate change, enhance resilience, and sustain livelihoods at the heart of our rural communities.