Gillian Toole (Meath East, Independent)
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405. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a Citizens' Assembly on food will be convened, to ensure an all-of-Government approach to Irish food security and meeting the objectives of the Healthy Ireland Policy and Actions. [62591/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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I am not aware of any plans to convene a Citizens’ Assembly on food.

Food is central to Ireland’s society, economy, and environment. Through Food Vision 2030, our stakeholder-led strategy for the agri-food sector, Ireland has adopted a food systems approach that promotes policy coherence including economic, environmental, health, social wellbeing and international development policy aspects. Its ambition is for Ireland to be a “World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems", achieved through the engagement of all stakeholders, private and public.

Developed by a 32-member stakeholder committee and informed by extensive public consultation, Food Vision 2030 reflects a wide range of perspectives. Collaboration remains key to its implementation through dedicated sectoral groups and oversight by a High-Level Implementation Committee, which I chair, to monitor delivery of its four Missions:

• A Climate Smart, Environmentally Sustainable Agri-Food Sector.
• Viable and Resilient Primary Producers, with Enhanced Wellbeing.
• Food that is Safe, Nutritious and Appealing, Trusted and Valued at Home and Abroad.
• Innovative, Competitive and Resilient Agri-Food Sector, Driven by Technology and Talent.

Recent geopolitical developments have challenged established assumptions on food security. However, Ireland remains among the most food secure countries in the world, ranked second in the most recent Global Food Security Index, underpinned by our strong agri-food sector, and our membership of the EU Single Market and participation in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Ireland continues to advocate for food systems transformation globally. Through the UN Food Systems Summit process, Ireland committed to sharing its experience in food systems transformation and supporting others through collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and other partners.

A mid-term review of Food Vision 2030, which I announced recently, will ensure that it remains ambitious, coherent, and responsive to evolving challenges, including food security, health, and environmental goals.