Agriculture Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 January 2026

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Wednesday, 21 January 2026

Questions (220)

Paul Lawless

Question:

220. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the justification for using nitrates derogation status as a negative scoring criterion for solar PV applications under TAMS 3; whether the Department has assessed the impact of this criterion on dairy farmers who have significantly higher electricity demand and therefore greater renewable-energy potential; whether the Department will review this scoring system to ensure it aligns with the objective of maximising emissions reductions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4653/26]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The Ranking and Selection System (RASS) under the Solar Capital Investment Scheme (SCIS) of the Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) applies marks across a range of criteria, including the Age of the Applicant, the Size of the Holding, Land in Area of Natural Constraints (ANC) and Nitrates status.

A negative mark does not apply for any type of farming enterprise in the scoring criteria for SCIS. Under the Nitrates criteria, a score of + 0.01 marks per Kg of nitrates per hectare is awarded, with a maximum of 1.7 marks available.

The SCIS is open to farmers of all enterprise types. I am satisfied that the current scoring system is the best mechanism for ensuring that funding is targeted at the most appropriate enterprises. I will also ensure that the system continues to be reviewed on a regular basis.

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