Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
803. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will introduce a Bill to protect farmers' incomes, protect succession rights (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3984/26]
View answerIreland's CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027 has a significant budget of €9.8 billion over five years, the highest funded programme to date, with the Government committing €2.3 billion to co-fund the rural development elements. Most of the budget, some 60%, is targeted towards income support, through Direct Payments to farmers and support payments for Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC).
The majority of the rest of the funds is being paid to farmers through the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES), our flagship €1.5 billion agri-environment scheme, and targeted supports to farmers under schemes such as Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme, the Sheep Improvement Scheme and the Organic Farming Scheme. In addition, the Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) provides grant aid to support capital investments by farmers. As we now look to the next CAP programming period, this CAP Strategic Plan will continue to protect family farm incomes; support the rural economy; ensure the production of high-quality safe food for consumers; and protect rural landscapes and the environment.
Farm succession is a complex issue and there are many factors that impact farmers’ decisions. The Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming was established to examine these issues and has produced a thorough analysis and made 31 recommendations across a wide range of areas, including CAP Supports, Pensions, Taxation, Access to Finance, Access to Land, Collaborative Arrangements, Advisory Services, Education and Training, Gender Balance and the Overall Attractiveness of the Sector. An implementation group in my Department is currently considering the recommendations of the Commission.
The EU Commission has also published a new Strategy for Generational Renewal in Agriculture, and this will be central to the next CAP. Much of the work we have already completed ensures we have a comprehensive, well-considered foundation for future policy on generational renewal. Supporting young farmers and facilitating generational renewal is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector.
