Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
490. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the estimated administrative and compliance costs for tillage farmers arising from the updated GAEC standards in 2026; the measures he is taking to minimise the regulatory burden on family farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13917/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe position for tillage farmers with respect to the updated GAEC standards is that, with the introduction of the latest CAP Simplification package from 2026, the administrative burden and cost of compliance will be less for those whose declared holding is less than 30ha in relation to compliance with GAEC 7 (Crop Rotation/Diversification).
Tillage farmers in this category (<30ha) can grow 1 crop whereas previously these growers had to grow 2 crops.
In addition, fully organic tillage farmers or those whose holdings are in conversion are excluded from GAEC 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7 controls and penalties, which is a significant benefit to those farmers.
Additional measures that have been introduced under CAP simplification, which I fully supported include:
• The removal of in excess of 16,000 farmers with 10 hectares or less from controls and penalties under Conditionality requirements.
• The removal of aspects of the GAEC 8 standard.
• Adjustments to GAEC 6 (protection of soils in the periods that are most sensitive - minimum soil cover) and GAEC 7 (Crop Rotation/Diversification).
I want to assure the Deputy that I will continue to seek and support additional measures that will reduce the administrative burden and cost of compliance.
