Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
340. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has considered introducing changes to straw shredding regulations, given the shortage of straw and fodder this year as a consequence of weather; if he will consider an opt-out clause; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27848/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) is a new scheme introduced under Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023 - 2027. This scheme follows on from a successful two-year pilot in operation during 2021 and 2022.
Application for the Measure is via the annual Basic Income for Sustainability (BISS) and other area-based schemes application process. The measure is available to all those who declare the requisite eligible crops and confirm their intent to participate when completing their online BISS application.
The measure requires an applicant to
• chop,
• spread and
• incorporate straw on a minimum of 5 hectares and up to a maximum payable area of 40 hectares.
Analysis of application data would indicate that only 20% (56,000 ha) of the overall cereal crop area applied for in 2024, has been selected for Straw Incorporation.
In line with the Terms and Conditions of the scheme, an applicant may withdraw an area of SIM, or amend parcel use where they haven't already been notified of an issue or an inspection. Consequently the scheme already has flexibility built-in for applicants to either fully or partially withdraw where straw is needed for fodder.
