Tipperary TD Michael Lowry is asking the government to treat farmers fairly in respect of reductions to emissions saying farmers need targets that are realistic and achievable.
The Dáil heard today that farmers are concerned about the level of demands and expectations being made of them.
Deputy Lowry noted the improvements made in farming operations in respect of emissions.
He cautioned about alienating the sector when it was the backbone of the rural economy.
He sought clarity on government progress in setting the emissions budget for farmers which was due to be finalised last week.
Minister of State, Martin Haydon TD, said that discussions are ongoing at a Governmental level across all sectors at present.
Minister Haydon said the Government ambition is to produce food more efficiently and with a better carbon profile.
Minister Eamon Ryan is said to be close to agreeing a figure of 22% – 26% reduction for the agriculture sector having sought a reduction of 30%.
The Irish Agriculture sector was directly responsible for 37.1% of national Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) emissions in 2020, mainly methane from livestock, and nitrous oxide due to the use of nitrogen fertiliser and manure management.
