The new government has worked to develop its 2025 draft programme that will be published today (Wednesday, January 15), and it is understood that many commitments have been made for the agriculture sector.
The new government will consist of members from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, with the parties to be ratified by the newly formed, Regional Independent Group, along with Michael Healy-Rae and Danny Healy-Rae.
It is believed that the joint document to be presented to Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael parliamentary parties will include a commitment to retain the nitrates derogation at EU level.
Given Ireland's unique grass-based production model, the government will work with famers, industry, state agencies and local authorities to develop evidence-based solutions to assist farmers in improving water quality.
A Nitrates Derogation Renewal Plan will be made in support of retention. It is also understood that the new government will make plans to establish a Cabinet Committee on Water Quality chaired by the Taoiseach to coordinate water quality improvements across all sectors.
For suckler and beef farmers, it is believed that the government will increase scheme supports for suckler farmers over a five-year term in office and ensure straightforward measures to encourage uptake.
The government will also financially incentivise the use of genetically superior beef artificial insemination (AI) stock bulls.
There also seems to be plans to promote the Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) for Irish Grass Fed beef as a premium brand in overseas markets, while developing new PGIs to enhance the value of Irish food exports.
The government will also continue to support the promotion and marketing of organic products in order to increase returns to producers.
Payments under the Areas of Natural Constraints scheme will continue and a review for payment rates on designated land under the Farm Plan Scheme will take place.
As part of the development of the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the government will ensure schemes fully consider the impact of designation of land and seek to reflect the financial impact of designation of land on farmers in the framing of future CAP schemes.
The government will also work with the department of health to examine the Fair Deal Scheme in order to ensure it does not impede succession planning and recognises the distinctive position of agricultural land.
It is understood that the new government plans to deliver a scheme that recognises the category of farmers known as the ‘Forgotten Farmers’.
It will also ensure sufficient employment permits to support the agri food sector including the equine, dairy, horticulture, fish and food processing industries.