Draft Agri-food Strategy 2030 now open for Public Consultation
Fine Gael Kildare South TD and Minister Martin Heydon last night held a discussion with Kildare and Laois farmers on CAP negotiations and the future sustainability of farming.
“In light of the recent publication of a draft of the 2030 Agri Food Strategy which will cover strategy for the next 10 years in Agriculture, I was delighted to host a lively discussion with over 60 farmers from Kildare and Laois. The draft strategy envisions Ireland as a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems over the next decade and considers many of the issues that will be central to the development of the sector over the next ten years.
“I briefed the meeting on how a food systems approach means an equal focus on the economic sustainability for the farmer as well as environmental sustainability and the sustainability of our rural communities. Those online at the discussion raised many points of interest to their current enterprises and the challenges that they face. We are all aware that changes will happen in farming practices in the coming 10 years and farmers, who are already custodians of the land, are very much part of the solution to our climate challenge as they continue with the production of sustainable quality food, however we must ensure that there is a sustainable income for their enterprises to play that part.
“MEP Colm Markey updated the meeting on the current status of CAP negotiations in Europe taking on board the concerns of Kildare farmers on the impact of issues including convergence.
“Proposals regarding the new Food Ombudsman, more research into credits for carbon sequestration and new market development, for which Minister Heydon also has responsibility, were discussed with participants being encouraged to have their say on the public consultation process of the draft Agri Food Strategy.
Minister Heydon highlighted that “this draft Strategy aims to build on our positive international reputation as a supplier of quality, safe, nutritious and sustainably-produced food and drinks. As Minister with Responsibility for Research and Development I am pleased with the emphasis on research, which will be a key enabler for an innovative agri-food sector, driven by technology and talent. I believe it is very welcome that the Strategy considers the welfare of our primary producers and recognises the importance of supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of the farming and fishing communities, and the challenges of isolation and mental health.”
“I encourage all those interested to participate in the public consultation and make their views known. The Committee will take these views into account before the Strategy is finalised. I look forward to as many people as possible participating in this consultation”.
Details on the public consultation can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/consultation/bd894-public-consultation-on-the-environmental-assessment-of-the-draft-agri-food-strategy-to-2030/