The chairperson of Lakeland Dairies has written to the leaders of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, calling on them to include key dairy sector issues in the next programme for government.
In his letter, seen by Agriland, that was addressed to Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Niall Matthews said he was writing to “emphasise the critical importance of ensuring that dairy farming and rural communities are strongly represented and supported in the upcoming programme for government”.
“Our members, representing thousands of family-run farms across the country, placed their trust in your parties at the recent election, based on the commitments made in your manifestos. We are now watching closely to see these commitments honoured,” he said.
“Irish dairy farming is at the heart of rural life, contributing significantly to the economy, employment, and sustainability of our communities.”
The Lakeland chair called on the two party leaders to prioritise three key issues, namely protection of the nitrates derogation; generational renewal; and tackling TB.
On the derogation, Matthews said: “Retaining the derogation is the difference between continuing to support thousands of jobs in every rural parish in the country and not.
“Its continuation, underpinned by evidence-based environmental policies, is essential for maintaining our competitiveness and avoiding catastrophic impacts on the viability of our farmers,” he added.
“We must leave no stone unturned in retaining the derogation.”
He noted recent EPA water quality results which showed that river nitrate concentrations from Ireland’s major rivers are at their lowest levels in nine years.
On TB, Matthews highlighted the emotional and financial turmoil of a TB breakdown on a farm.
“The annual routine of a herd going on test and the reading four days later brings worry, uncertainty and unimaginable stress,” he said.
“Unfortunately, we are seeing a worrying trend develop with TB incidence rates increasing. We appear further away than ever from the ambition of achieving a TB-free status.
Matthews called for the next government to use a “more joined-up approach” on an all-island basis to effectively tackle TB all over the island of Ireland.
Finally, on generational renewal, Matthews called for policies that support generational renewal – such as access to land; funding for education and innovation; and tailored incentives – to be made central to the government’s agenda.
He welcomed the recently established Commission on Generational Renewal that was set up by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue.
“This level of fresh thinking is required to ensure that young people see dairy farming as a viable career option.”
Matthews concluded the letter by saying: “Lakeland Dairies and the wider farming community stand ready to work constructively with the incoming government to achieve these goals. We urge you to recognise that the success of Irish dairying is not just a rural concern but a national priority.
“We trust that your commitment, and the commitment of your respective negotiation teams, to rural Ireland and its farming families will be reflected in the final programme for government,” he added.