Written Answers Nos. 101-120
101. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine following the roll-out of the TB action plan, if the current compensation arrangements, including the €3,000 cap, are being reviewed to ensure that farmers are not financially disadvantaged where the market value of animals exceeds the compensation available under the new system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35630/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraBovine TB is an ongoing challenge for Irish farmers. I am acutely aware of the emotional and financial impacts of bovine TB on farmers, their families and rural Ireland.
I have secured an increased budget for bTB in Budget 2026 and I am confident that this will allow the revamped bTB programme to focus on tackling disease levels through the implementation of the measures laid out in the new bTB Action Plan.
It will support and enable farm families who are currently dealing with the stress of a TB outbreak to navigate a way out of a TB restriction and protect those herds currently free from TB from the stress of a TB outbreak.
The objective of the new measures in the Bovine TB Action Plan is to reduce the number of farms affected by bTB and decrease costs for all stakeholders.
My Department provides a range of financial supports that focus on compensating farmers for both direct and indirect losses incurred as a result of a TB breakdown on the farm.
The primary support scheme is the On Farm Market Valuation scheme where animals removed as reactors receive compensation subject to scheme ceilings equivalent to their market value in the event they were not disclosed as TB reactors.
In 2025 of the 40,583 animals valued under the On Farm Market Valuation scheme just under 90% of animals were valued below the scheme ceilings.
In addition to the compensation package for eligible reactor animals that are removed during a TB breakdown, my Department operates three supplementary schemes that assist farmers with the indirect losses incurred as a result of a TB breakdown on their farm - the Income Supplement Scheme, the Hardship Grant and the Depopulation Grant.
As part of the work of the TB Forum, a dedicated Financial Working Group was established to review the financial modelling of various elements of the Bovine TB Eradication programme.
As a result of the agreement reached in this Group, over the last two years there were rate enhancements to the Income Supplement Scheme, the Hardship Grant and the Depopulation Grant as well as enhanced ceilings for select animals being removed as part of the On Farm Market Valuation.
Market prices of animals continue to be monitored, however the focus at present is on reducing the levels of disease which will reduce the impact of bTB on Irish farm families and reduce the cost of the programme which has risen to over €121 million in 2025.
102. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department officially endorses a publication (detailed supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35758/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department was not involved in the development or distribution of the publication Sitka Spruce the Amazing Timber Tree, nor did it provide any funding for this book. It is an industry-led initiative, supported by the Society of Irish Foresters, the Social, Economic, Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA), and the Irish Timber Council.
A foreword was provided by former Minister of State Michael Healy Rae which speaks to the different trees that grow in a forest, and the various roles forests play. This message is consistent with the values of forests for climate, nature, wood, people, and the economy and rural development as defined in my Department’s Forestry Strategy 2023 – 2030.
My Department's Forestry Communications Plan promotes this balanced approach to forestry that supports the planting of broadleaves and native tree species, as well as coniferous species, such as Sitka Spruce. The impact of this approach is evident in planting rates in 2025 where 65% of new forests were broadleaf and 35% coniferous trees.
103. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is considering any restrictions on commercial forests to plant diverse species and introduce selective tree-felling to maintain forests rather than to allow them to be fully cleared; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35627/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe forestry application process applied by my Department provides a comprehensive legislative and regulatory platform for assessing applications for licences in relation to regulated forestry activities.
A central focus throughout is ensuring that each project, whether it includes commercial species or only species just planted for nature, is compatible with the protection of water, biodiversity, archaeology and the landscape, and that it complies with all relevant national and EU legislation.
Various standards and requirements stipulate how particular operations must be carried out in order to safeguard the environment. Adherence to these, all of which are publicly available, is a condition of any licence issued. Examples include the Environmental Requirements for Afforestation and the Standards for Felling & Reforestation.
One of the objectives of the current Forestry Programme is to plant at least 50% broadleaf species. This is currently being achieved. Additionally, all newly planted forests, include mixed coniferous high forest, require a minimum per-application broadleaved species component of 20% by area.
A second objective of the Forestry Programme is to encourage forest management practices in forests that result in continuous cover forest (CCF) management and forest retention, thereby not having large clearfell operations. This objective is supported by both Forest Type 10 - Continuous Cover Forestry for new forests and the Woodland Improvement Scheme Element 3, for existing forest owners, which provides a fixed Continuous Cover Forestry grant enabling the forest owner to draw up and implement a CCF Conversion Management Plan.
104. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers in Cork currently participating in the eco scheme and ACRES; the total value of payments issued to date in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34697/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Eco-scheme and the Agriculture Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) are both measures approved in Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027.
The purpose of the Eco-Scheme, which was introduced for the first time in 2023, is to reward farmers for undertaking actions beneficial to climate, biodiversity, water quality and the environment. As of May 2026, a total of €306 million has been paid to 118,000 farmers who applied for Eco-Scheme in 2025, of which a total of €35,630,703 has been paid to 12,187 farmers from Cork. The annual breakdown of Eco-Scheme applications and payments for Cork based farmers is provided below.
|
CORK |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
Number of Participants |
12,476 |
12,592 |
12,187 |
|
Total Payments (Gross) € |
36,317,782 |
36,063,821 |
35,630,703 |
The Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme, or ACRES, is a national multi-annual agri-environmental climate measure. 53,324 farmers are currently participating in the Scheme, with a total of €783.8 million paid, in core scheme payments, to ACRES participants to date. A further €7.4 million has been paid to farmers in the ACRES Co-operation approach for the implementation of approved non-productive investments under the Scheme.
There are 4,104 farmers in Co. Cork currently participating in ACRES, with a total of €19,467,317.47 paid to date in respect of their participation in the Scheme in 2025. The amounts paid to ACRES participants in Co. Cork in respect of the 2023 and 2024 Scheme years are currently being compiled by my Department, the total amount paid to ACRES participants in Co. Cork since the commencement of the Scheme will be sent directly to the Deputy when available.
A further €644,782.53 has been paid to date to farmers in Cork who are participating in the ACRES Co-operation approach in respect of their implementation of approved non-productive investments. Non-productive investments are voluntary complementary environmental actions which an ACRES Co-operation participant may avail of to enhance the environmental quality of their lands which in turn may increase their results based payment for those lands.
105. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the progress made to date on the proposed native Irish honey bee Bill 2021; the current status of engagement with beekeeping organisations, environmental groups and scientific experts on the legislation; the timeline envisaged for publication and enactment of the Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35735/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Protection of the Native Irish Honey Bee Bill 2021, which seeks to ban the importation of non-native honey bees, is a Private Members Bill and is currently before Dáil Éireann, Second Stage. Progression of the Bill through Dáil Éireann is subject to the procedures of the Oireachtas.
Following advice from the Office of the Attorney General, my Department procured independent scientific evidence and in October 2023, a contract was signed with the National University of Ireland, Galway for the provision of research services on the native Irish honey bee (Apis mellifera mellifera).
The research work concluded in December 2024, and the research report was subsequently evaluated by an external expert. Following the completion of the evaluation, the research service provider was afforded the opportunity to respond to the evaluator’s comments and these comments were received in September 2025. My Department is currently finalising the overall response to the report.
My Department engages regularly with the beekeeping organisations. One of the requirements of the Annual Grants to Irish National Beekeepers Federations scheme is that my Department and the four respective beekeepers federations meet on a regular basis to discuss any issues arising. My Department also participates in events/meetings organised by various beekeeping associations.
106. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the current status of non-coursing greyhounds whose year of birth was 2023 and that were being tracked on Rásaíocht Con Éireann's traceability system, giving a detailed breakdown into active, inactive and exported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35487/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) is a commercial state body, established under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958, chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. RCÉ is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
A strong commitment to improved animal welfare in the greyhound racing sector is set out in the Programme for Government, which requires Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) to continue to provide financial support for the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) and to contribute to rehoming greyhounds.
My Department requires that at least 10% of the Horse and Greyhound Fund annual allocation be used to support welfare and integrity. In 2024, RCÉ informed my Department that it allocated 20% of its funding to Traceability, Care, and Welfare matters. This expenditure increased to 21.19% for 2025.
The update on the current status of non-coursing greyhounds who were being tracked on Rásaíocht Con Éireann's Traceability System for the years 2021 to 2024 is as follows:
2021 - RCÉ has informed my Department that, of the 11,618 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2021, 442 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 11,176 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 5,333 were exported overseas.
2022 - Of the 10,842 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2022, 2,128 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 8,714 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 4,677 were exported overseas.
2023 - Of the 8,156 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2023, 2,422 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 5,734 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 3,702 were exported overseas.
2024 - Of the 8,282 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2024, 5,098 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 3,184 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 2,330 were exported overseas.
RCÉ also informed my Department that as of 2nd May 2026, 468 greyhounds are on the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) Rehoming List awaiting a vacancy in one of the Rásaíocht Con Éireann operated Care or Foster Centres.
The IRGT does not differentiate between coursing and non-coursing greyhounds, as it has a statutory duty for the welfare of all greyhounds. The IRGT does not distinguish and record separate data and therefore, this figure encompasses all registered greyhounds under its programmes.
107. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of afforestation, felling and road licences issued in Cork in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the current average processing time for such licences; the number of applications awaiting decision in County Cork; the steps being taken to address delays impacting landowners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34696/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe median processing times for approved applications for the Cork area in 2026 are:
• 6 months for Afforestation,
• less than 3 months for Forest Roads,
• 6 months for Felling (Private) and 3 months for Felling (Coillte).
In 2024, licence applications submitted for the Cork area include:
• Afforestation was 52 with none pending and 55 approved.
• Forest Roads was 65 with one pending and 81 approved.
• Felling (Private) was 95 with one pending and 86 approved.
• Felling (Coillte) was 134 with 14 pending and 118 approved.
In 2025, licence applications submitted for the Cork area include:
• Afforestation was 39 with four pending and 25 approved.
• Forest Roads was 41 with six pending and 52 approved.
• Felling (Private) was 104 with 15 pending and 133 approved.
• Felling (Coillte) was 28 with 14 pending and 118 approved.
In 2026 to date, licence applications submitted for the Cork area include:
• Afforestation was 14 with 10 pending and 25 approved.
• Forest Roads was 16 with 13 pending and nine approved.
• Felling (Private) was 42 with one pending and 86 approved.
• Felling (Coillte) was 116 with 28 pending and 42 approved.
My Department has made a number of improvements to reduce processing times for forestry licences. Significant investment has been made in additional staffing resources including forestry inspectors, ecologists, archaeologists, engineers and administrative staff to ensure that the majority of licences are now processes well within the timelines set out in the Farmers Charter.
Application procedures continue to be streamlined with the majority of applications now completed online with the introduction of iPlan, the forest service online planning tool launched in November 2025, significantly helping online forest management planning.
108. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the interagency arrangements in place between his Department, An Garda Síochána and local authorities to respond to serious animal welfare complaints; his views on whether current levels of enforcement are sufficient to tackle the problem of animal cruelty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34336/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAnimal welfare is a key priority for me as Minister and for the Government. My Department has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and takes this matter most seriously.
I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner and remain committed to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare.
All reports of alleged animal cruelty or neglect received by my Department are investigated. My Department and authorised officers appointed under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, including An Garda Síochána, Customs agents, local authorities, and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), undertake appropriate enforcement action, where breaches or shortcomings are identified.
My Department keeps the Act under review in light of key developments in the areas of animal welfare, the law and having regard to the practical lessons learnt from operating the Act.
Since the introduction of the Act, approximately 1,000 staff within my Department have been designated as authorised officers, under the Act. A large number of these authorised officers are based in my Department’s network of Regional Veterinary Offices throughout the country, providing nationwide coverage. Their responsibilities include carrying out welfare inspections in every county and providing advice and support to the keepers of animals, however primary responsibility for protecting the welfare of animals rests with the owner or keeper.
A feature of the enforcement of the Act is my Department can work alongside An Garda Síochána and the Local Authority on certain enforcement matters, resulting in a very effective and efficient use of resources.
My Department is responsible for all policy and legislation in relation to the Control of Horses Act 1996, however operation and enforcement of the Act comes under the remit of local authorities.
Under the Control of Horses Act 1996, local authorities may take a range of actions in relation to equines including prohibiting horses in certain areas, the issuing of licences and the seizure of horses in contravention of the Act. These powers can be used in respect of straying horses, which includes horses put on land without the owner’s permission, including public land. Local authorities may also prosecute offenders. The Act is currently under review within my Department.
My Department operates a confidential animal welfare helpline through which members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation. All reports received generate case reports which are referred for investigation by authorised officers and appropriate action is taken, which could include, up to, prosecution. The dedicated email address and helpline in place for reporting suspected cases of animal welfare are:
Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379.
Email address - animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie
I am satisfied that these measures provide a comprehensive framework and sufficient safeguards to ensure the welfare of animals.
109. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps his Department has taken to ensure the mistreatment of animals, in particular horses, is being reduced and nullified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35775/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAnimal welfare is a key priority for me as Minister and for the Government. My Department has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and takes this matter most seriously.
I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner and remain committed to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare.
All reports of alleged animal cruelty or neglect received by my Department are investigated. My Department and authorised officers appointed under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, including An Garda Síochána, Customs agents, local authorities, and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), undertake appropriate enforcement action, where breaches or shortcomings are identified.
My Department keeps the Act under review in light of key developments in the areas of animal welfare, the law and having regard to the practical lessons learnt from operating the Act.
Since the introduction of the Act, approximately 1,000 staff within my Department have been designated as authorised officers, under the Act.
A large number of these authorised officers are based in my Department’s network of Regional Veterinary Offices throughout the country, providing nationwide coverage. Their responsibilities include carrying out welfare inspections in every county and providing advice and support to the keepers of animals, however primary responsibility for protecting the welfare of animals rests with the owner or keeper.
The welfare of equines is protected by legislation and there is a commitment in the Programme for Government to build on existing inspectorate supports across the country, ensuring a consistent approach to dealing with horse welfare. It must be emphasised that primary responsibility for the health and welfare of equines lies with the owner or keeper.
In 2025, my Department published Professor Patrick Wall’s report on equine traceability and welfare and prepared an action plan to implement its recommendations, which is progressing.
Development of a new animal welfare strategy is now well underway by my Department following broad stakeholder engagement including a non-statutory public consultation. In excess of 1750 individual submissions were received as part of that process, which are currently under analysis by my Department.
The new strategy will continue to adopt a ‘One Health, One Welfare’ approach, acknowledging and valuing the inter-dependencies between human, animal and environmental health, and taking an evidence-led approach to policy making, target-setting, monitoring and evaluation.
In line with the Programme for Government and our current Animal Welfare Strategy, which is in the process of being renewed, I also support sustainable initiatives which includes nationwide urban horse projects.
Working with local authorities, charities and community stakeholders, these projects have proven very successful, aimed at equine welfare and marginalised communities, fostering community leadership and education in responsible horse ownership for young people.
My Department has spent over €2.1 million from 2015 to date, on urban horse projects, with €170,000 allocated for 2026. There are currently ten live projects, and I would welcome new submissions from local authorities to develop urban horse projects in their respective areas.
Under the Animal Welfare Grants programme, in December 2025, my Department provided funding of almost €6.5 million to 94 animal welfare charities throughout the country. Of that figure, just over €4 million was awarded to charities involved in the care and welfare of horses.
110. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total number of TAMS-supported solar PV applications received by his Department to date; the total number of applications approved; the total number of applications refused, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35732/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Solar Capital Investment Scheme (SCIS) is one of the eleven schemes within TAMS 3.
SCIS has proved to be extremely popular, with payments of over €31.5 million issued to farmers since payments commenced in June 2024. To date, 6,086 applications have been received, with 3,425 approvals issued, allowing those farmers to proceed with their investments. Approvals are continuing to issue on eligible applications once checks have been completed.
TAMS 3 is a demand-led scheme with a defined budgetary allocation. Given that we are now over halfway through the current CAP Strategic Plan (CSP), it is prudent that we are mindful of the budget available for the remaining TAMS tranches.
In order to ensure that the available budget is distributed fairly over the remainder of the CSP programming period, it was necessary to limit the number of approved applications in recent tranches by applying ranking and selection criteria (RASS).
The table below provides a breakdown of the number of applications in SCIS that were unsuccessful in Tranche 9 and Tranche 10, 638 and 1,334 respectively. Those that were unsuccessful in Tranche 9 automatically rolled over into Tranche 10 while those unsuccessful in Tranche 10 will be rolled over into Tranche 11 and will be considered again when an assessment of all tranche 11 applications takes place later this month.
The TAMS scheme will be kept under ongoing review for the remainder of the CSP based on the number of applications received and the available budget.
|
Solar Applications |
|
Unsuccessful |
Unsuccessful |
|
Applications Received |
Applications Approved |
Tranche 9 |
Tranche 10 |
|
6,086 |
3,425 |
638 |
1334 |
111. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the implementation of Ireland's National Forestry Strategy 2023 to 2030. [35408/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraA Forest Strategy for 2023–2030 was published in September 2023, which was informed by comprehensive engagement and public consultation. This Strategy provides Ireland with a roadmap for the rest of this decade to put in place strong foundations for forests that deliver multi-faceted benefits.
In conjunction, a Forest Strategy Implementation Plan (FSIP), which includes the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 was also developed to facilitate the initial steps in the implementation of this Forest Strategy. It comprises of 87 actions consisting of Forestry Programme and non-Programme actions.
The current Forestry Programme is the biggest and best funded Forestry Programme to date in Ireland. It provides unprecedented incentives to encourage the planting of trees by providing a valuable addition to farm income whilst also helping to meet national climate and biodiversity objectives. To date, 21 schemes have been launched under the Programme, including forest creation measures, such as my Department's Afforestation and Native Tree Area Schemes. There is also a broad range of support schemes on offer for forest owners that recognise the importance of managing existing forests.
There are only 3 schemes that remain to be launched, the Innovative Forest Technology Scheme - Module 5: Technology Challenge Grant, the Forest Classroom pilot scheme, and the Environmental Enhancement pilot Scheme. These will be introduced on a phased basis over the remainder of the Programme term.
The FSIP also includes non-programme actions, which are those delivered outside of the scope of the Forestry Programme. For example, services associated with plant health or forest reproductive material, my Department’s competitive research call, the national forest inventory, use of timber in construction and actions delivered by my Department’s agencies or companies, such as Teagasc, or Coillte, or by other Government Departments or their agencies, for example the Environmental Protection Agency, or National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Monitoring and reporting structures are in place to oversee, guide and track the implementation of the Forest Strategy. To monitor the progress of the plan a Forest Strategy Consultative Committee (FSCC) was established, it provides a forum for stakeholders, including, State agencies, industry and environment NGOs to work together to monitor the progress of the plan to ensure a successful outcome and delivery of objectives. An action tracker is presented quarterly to the FSSC and is available on my Departments website.
113. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine now that the TB action plan has come into effect, if his Department is planning a review of its implementation in light of reports of significant confusion among farmers regarding the new herd criteria, testing rules, and animal movement requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35629/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn September 2025, I launched the ‘Bovine TB Action Plan: Addressing Bovine TB in Ireland’. There are 5 measures and 30 actions underpinned by scientific research, evidence and veterinary expertise in this action plan.
1. Support herds free of bTB to remain free
2. Reduce the impact of wildlife on the spread of bTB
3. Detect and eliminate bTB infection as early as possible in herds with a bTB breakdown and avoid a future breakdown
4. Help farmers improve all areas of on-farm biosecurity
5. Reduce the impact of known high-risk animals in spreading bTB
The aim of the Action Plan is to reset the bTB programme by putting in place measures necessary to tackle the current disease situation.
On 13 April 2026, I introduced a number of new testing requirements to reduce the transmission of bTB from cattle to cattle. A reduction in bTB levels in breeding herds and in particular dairy herds is a key element of driving down bTB levels nationally. These new testing requirements apply to all cows as well as male cattle aged 36 months or over. There have been no changes made to how calves, weanlings, heifers (with the exception of contract reared dairy heifers) or bullocks and bulls under 36 months of age can be sold or moved from herd to herd.
These changes are targeted, to ensure they focus on the group of animals which are responsible for the largest number of bTB reactors, namely cows and primarily dairy cows, whilst ensuring farmers can continue to sell cows at livestock marts to achieve a competitive price for their animals.
I wrote directly to farmers on 27 March outlining the changes to animal movement and animal testing requirements, and leaflets and posters have also been provided to livestock marts. There have been other communication campaigns including newspaper articles and social media. In addition there is detailed information and updates on these changes, including FAQs at www.bovinetb.ie.
My Department continues to engage with all stakeholders including farm organisations and livestock marts to provide any assistance needed in managing these changes.
There has been encouraging progress in recent months in reducing bTB levels. This reduction in bTB nationally is due to the combined efforts of all stakeholders in supporting farmers in reducing the risk of bTB in their herds.
114. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the current status of non-coursing greyhounds whose year of birth was 2024 and that were being tracked on Rásaíocht Con Éireann's traceability system, giving a detailed breakdown into active, inactive and exported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35488/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) is a commercial state body, established under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958, chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. RCÉ is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
A strong commitment to improved animal welfare in the greyhound racing sector is set out in the Programme for Government, which requires Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) to continue to provide financial support for the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) and to contribute to rehoming greyhounds.
My Department requires that at least 10% of the Horse and Greyhound Fund annual allocation be used to support welfare and integrity. In 2024, RCÉ informed my Department that it allocated 20% of its funding to Traceability, Care, and Welfare matters. This expenditure increased to 21.19% for 2025.
The update on the current status of non-coursing greyhounds who were being tracked on Rásaíocht Con Éireann's Traceability System for the years 2021 to 2024 is as follows:
2021 - RCÉ has informed my Department that, of the 11,618 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2021, 442 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 11,176 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 5,333 were exported overseas.
2022 - Of the 10,842 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2022, 2,128 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 8,714 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 4,677 were exported overseas.
2023 - Of the 8,156 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2023, 2,422 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 5,734 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 3,702 were exported overseas.
2024 - Of the 8,282 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2024, 5,098 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 3,184 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 2,330 were exported overseas.
RCÉ also informed my Department that as of 2nd May 2026, 468 greyhounds are on the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) Rehoming List awaiting a vacancy in one of the Rásaíocht Con Éireann operated Care or Foster Centres.
The IRGT does not differentiate between coursing and non-coursing greyhounds, as it has a statutory duty for the welfare of all greyhounds. The IRGT does not distinguish and record separate data and therefore, this figure encompasses all registered greyhounds under its programmes.
115. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the number of non-coursing greyhounds currently on a wait list for a vacancy in an Irish greyhound care home, foster place or rescue place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35489/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) is a commercial state body, established under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958, chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. RCÉ is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
A strong commitment to improved animal welfare in the greyhound racing sector is set out in the Programme for Government, which requires Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) to continue to provide financial support for the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) and to contribute to rehoming greyhounds.
My Department requires that at least 10% of the Horse and Greyhound Fund annual allocation be used to support welfare and integrity. In 2024, RCÉ informed my Department that it allocated 20% of its funding to Traceability, Care, and Welfare matters. This expenditure increased to 21.19% for 2025.
The update on the current status of non-coursing greyhounds who were being tracked on Rásaíocht Con Éireann's Traceability System for the years 2021 to 2024 is as follows:
2021 - RCÉ has informed my Department that, of the 11,618 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2021, 442 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 11,176 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 5,333 were exported overseas.
2022 - Of the 10,842 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2022, 2,128 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 8,714 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 4,677 were exported overseas.
2023 - Of the 8,156 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2023, 2,422 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 5,734 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 3,702 were exported overseas.
2024 - Of the 8,282 greyhounds whose year of birth was 2024, 5,098 greyhounds currently hold an active status, while 3,184 are recorded as inactive. Of those recorded as inactive, 2,330 were exported overseas.
RCÉ also informed my Department that as of 2nd May 2026, 468 greyhounds are on the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) Rehoming List awaiting a vacancy in one of the Rásaíocht Con Éireann operated Care or Foster Centres.
The IRGT does not differentiate between coursing and non-coursing greyhounds, as it has a statutory duty for the welfare of all greyhounds. The IRGT does not distinguish and record separate data and therefore, this figure encompasses all registered greyhounds under its programmes.
116. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount of funding from the carbon tax allocated to his Department since 2020; and the amount expended. [35756/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2026, my Department received €173 million in carbon tax funding. This funding will be used to support the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) which is set out in Ireland’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan 2023-2027. ACRES supports over 54,000 farmers who undertake actions that benefit the environment, helping to improve outcomes on biodiversity, climate and air and water quality.
The Carbon Tax funding will also be used to support the delivery of up to 5.7TWh of indigenously produced biomethane by 2030, as outlined in the National Biomethane Strategy.
In recent years my Department has supported the Peatlands Initiative, the Global Methane Hub, Anaerobic Digestion and the Ag Nav Sustainability Platform. using Carbon Tax funding
The table below sets out the amount of Carbon Tax funding allocated to my Department since 2020 and the amount expended each year.
|
Year |
Scheme |
Allocation |
Spend |
Surrendered |
|
2020 |
Overall Allocation |
3,000,000 |
2,031,771 |
968,229 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
2,031,771 |
968,229 |
|
Current |
N/A |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
2021 |
Overall Allocation |
23,000,000 |
14,214,380 |
8,785,620 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
3,000,000 |
0 |
|
Current |
REAP |
20,000,000 |
10,758,613 |
9,241,387 |
|
2022 |
Overall Allocation |
3,000,000 |
3,000,000 |
0 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
3,000,000 |
0 |
|
Current |
N/A |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
2023 |
Overall Allocation |
81,000,000 |
80,905,053 |
94,947 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
2,905,053 |
94,947 |
|
Current |
ACRES |
78,000,000 |
78,000,000 |
0 |
|
2024 |
Overall Allocation |
113,000,000 |
112,085,951 |
914,049 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
2,085,951 |
914,049 |
|
Current |
ACRES |
110,000,000 |
110,000,000 |
0 |
|
2025 |
Overall Allocation |
143,000,000 |
142,396,818 |
603,182 |
|
Capital |
Carbon Tax Measures |
3,000,000 |
2,396,819 |
603,181 |
|
Current |
ACRES |
140,000,000 |
140,000,000 |
0 |
117. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on the most recent engagement his Department and its agencies have had with stakeholders on any proposals for potential future management measures for razor clam fisheries in the North Irish Sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34699/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn January, the National Inshore Fisheries Forum submitted a proposal to my Department entitled “North Irish Sea Interim Razor Fishery Management Plan”. The proposal, which was developed and brought forward by the North East Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum (RIFF), is currently being examined by my Department and the marine agencies including Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Marine Institute and the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority. I am advised that some of the measures included in the proposal are already provided for in existing fisheries management legislation.
My Department met with representatives from the marine agencies, met in February to give preliminary consideration to the proposal received.
The proposal was also discussed with industry representatives at a meeting of the National Inshore Fisheries Forum in March, which was attended by my Department and the marine agencies. At that meeting, the North East RIFF representative was informed that, once consideration of the proposal had been completed, a further meeting would be arranged to facilitate further engagement and discussion of the proposal.
My Department, together with representatives from the marine agencies, met again in April to examine and discuss the management measures included in the proposal in greater detail and further meeting is planned in the coming weeks.
These discussions form part of an ongoing process which intends to examine the feasibility of the proposed measures, while also taking into account, scientific, enforcement, and economic considerations.
There are a number of regulations in place to give legal effect to the current management measures for the sustainable fishing of razor clam, including:
• S.I. No. 160 of 2018: establishes a minimum conservation reference size of 125 mm for razor clams fished in the North Irish Sea,
• S.I. No. 588 of 2015: reduces the weekly landing limit for razor clam for vessels in the North Irish Sea to 600 kilograms from January 2016,
• S.I. No. 207 of 2015: limits razor clam fishing in the North Irish Sea to specific days of the week,
• S.I. No. 206 of 2015: regulates the razor clam fishery within internal waters or territorial seas, including weighing of landings, reporting of catch, and GPS monitoring of vessels.
118. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the Irish whiskey files will reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35741/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the significant growth and success of the Irish whiskey sector in recent years. In 2010, there were only four distilleries on the Island, but in the years since, the growth in the sector has been tremendous. We now have just under 50 distilleries on the island. Irish whiskey makes a substantial contribution to our economy and is also a prominent example of a successful all-island industry.
Irish Whiskey is a Geographical Indication registered with the European Commission and must be produced in accordance with the Irish Whiskey Product Specification.
The Irish Whiskey Product Specification sometimes referred to as the Whiskey File is currently being examined. My Department has begun the process of amending the Irish Whiskey Technical File and are currently preparing for the public consultation phase. I hope to announce the date for the opening of the public consultation process shortly. Once opened the window for submissions will last for a period of two months. I very much encourage all interested parties to engage with this process and would welcome strong engagement from the public.
Following the public consultation there will be a detailed examination of the submissions, and this will actively inform decisions. A significant part of this process, includes an assessment on how to progress with any of proposed amendments. Some amendments may be deemed ‘standard’ national amendments, with others considered ‘Union’ amendments which must be submitted to the EU Commission for consideration.
Amending the Irish Whiskey Technical File is a priority for my Department and I look forward to launching the key public consultation phase shortly.
119. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the work of the wool council; the actions it has undertaken; and if he would consider the creation of a wool payment for farmers. [35483/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department previously commissioned an independent in-depth study of the Irish wool market called Review Of Market Opportunities For Irish-Grown Wool Based Products, which was published in 2022.
Following publication of the report, my Department allocated €30,000 in seed funding to support the establishment of a wool council. The independent Irish Grown Wool Council was established in April 2023, this Council is an independent body which does not come under the aegis of my Department nor does the Council report to me.
In the current Programme for Government, there are further commitments to support the Irish Grown Wool Council to explore initiatives to promote Irelands design and fashion scene.
My Department is subsidising sheep shearing under the 2026 National Sheep Welfare Scheme, which has attracted almost 17,000 applicants and to date has paid out €7.3m.
The inclusion of the shearing action in the scheme is an animal welfare measure that will also incentivise sheep farmers to present wool in the best possible condition at the farmgate which will add value to their wool.
In addition, farmers in the sheep sector are supported by a strong price profile of sheep meat, which forecasts for 2026 indicated will remain high but not at the record 2024 prices.
120. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the engagement he has had with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence, to ensure that the Fisheries Monitoring Centre is adequately resourced to perform its responsibilities throughout the Irish EEZ; and to provide statistics on inspections of vessels in the zone for the past five years, by year, to illustrate this point. [35071/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006, the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) is responsible for securing the efficient and effective enforcement of sea fisheries law and food safety law and the sustainable exploitation of marine fish resources from the waters around Ireland within Ireland's EEZ.
Under the Act, I am expressly precluded from getting involved in operational matters including in relation to sea fisheries control. However, I understand that a Service Level Agreement (SLA) is in place which underpins the relationship between the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the Department of Defence. I am informed that the SLA between the Department of Defence and the SFPA facilitates a close and effective partnership between that Department and the SFPA so that Ireland meets its obligations under the Common Fisheries Policy to ensure a system of fishery control for the protection and sustainable exploitation of marine organisms.
The Naval Service and the Air Corps inter alia patrol the Irish 200 nautical mile limit in respect of sea fisheries protection and these patrols are augmented in the Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC) located at the Naval Base in Haulbowline, which the Naval Service is responsible for operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Under the EU Fisheries Control Regulation, Member States are required to establish and operate Fisheries Monitoring Centres which shall monitor fishing activities and fishing effort etc.
The FMC provides for fishery data collection, analysis, and dissemination to the Naval Service and client agencies such as the SFPA. The FMC carries out monitoring and surveillance of fishing vessels operating within or adjacent to Ireland’s EEZ and also of all Irish vessels operating worldwide.
The resourcing of the FMC and connected matters are the responsibility of the Department of Defence.
Inspection data as requested by the Deputy can be provided by the SFPA given its responsibility for sea fisheries control matters. Accordingly, I have referred that query to the SFPA for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
