Simon Harris

Supporting competitiveness as part of the EU pharmaceutical sector reforms and innovation in life-sciences in Ireland.

To highlight how the proposed increases in the non-domestic water tariffs will disproportionately impact the most vulnerable of farm families, extensive farmers on fragmented holdings with multiple water connections.::To highlight that the latest Teagasc Farm Survey , which was…

To highlight that the nitrates derogation is of huge importance to the Irish agri-food sector and the wider economy. The derogation allows grassland farmers to maximise the advantages of our grass-based system while somewhat balancing the significant economic disadvantages they…

To highlight the ongoing challenges facing farmers.::To engage with Government Ministers and TD's to discuss how some of these issues could be addressed in next month's Budget.::To highlight urgent issues::- Delays in Farm Payments::- Retention of the Nitrates Derogation::-…

To propose that the the entire fallen animal collection system should be reviewed to identify the most effective and efficient means to ensure farmers can meet their legal obligations to dispose of fallen animals efficiently at a competitive price.

To propose the establishment of a 5-year Tillage Survival Scheme with an annual payment of €250/ha for commercial tillage farmers, costing c.€65.75m.::That, following the publication of the Tillage Vision Group report in May 2024, a 5-year plan to ensure the economic survival of…

To propose that a payment of €400/ha should be paid on land converted into tillage in year 1 with a maintenance payment of €250/ha following in year 2. Land entered into any such scheme must remain in tillage for a 5-year period.

To propose that increased investment needs to be made toward developing suitable markets and outlets for existing organic produce and the projected increase coming onto the market in the coming years.::Funding for the Organic Farm Scheme should be increased to incentivise and…

To propose that with regards to the Aquaculture Policy and Legislative reform – that to achieve the objectives and specific actions outlined in the Seafood Development Programme 2021-2027 and the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture, it is now critical that a…

To propose a full review of the Forestry Programme. Committing 32% of productive land area to biodiversity and broadleaf planting is excessive, impacting farm commercial viability.::To propose that if any percentage of the farm is dedicated to forestry, it should be defined as…

To propose that the introduction of a Roadside Ash Tree Removal Fund to support the safe removal of diseased roadside ash trees safely is urgently required.

To highlight that under 2.1.3. of State Aid Guidelines, aid for the prevention and restoration of damage to forests IFA is seeking the inclusion of aid in the form of compensation and annual premium per hectare may be granted to cover the costs of income foregone and…

To propose an appropriate compensation scheme funded independently of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), is required to ensure farmers currently affected by designation are adequately compensated for the farming restrictions placed on them and to account for a loss of…

To propose that funding for the ANCs is increased by at least a further €50m to bring the total budget for the scheme to €300m, with eligible area to be increased to 45ha.

To propose that the Government must act on the eight key strategic actions set out in the National Horticulture Strategy supporting the expansion of the Irish Horticulture sector and commit the extra resources required for research and development and advisory services.::That a…