Agriculture Sector Not To Blame For Country's Carbon Emissions, Says Midlands TD

Monday, 25 July 2022 07:16

A group of TD's and Senators have issued a statement as government continues talks on carbon emission reductions this week.

A group of Fine Gael TDs and Senators say farmers cannot continue to be blamed for the country's carbon emissions.

Laois Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan, alongside John Paul Phelan, David Stanton and Paul Kehoe, and Senators John Cummins and Garret Ahearn, have issued a statement as government continues talks on carbon emission reductions this week.

They say 'finger pointing' at the agriculture sector, could impact the country's reputation as a sustainable food producer, and claim a 'false narrative' is putting all of the blame on farmers and rural Ireland.

A decision on the cut to emissions within the Agri sector, with question marks over whether it will be in the order of 22%, or 30%, is likely to face delays, and may not be made before next Wednesday's cabinet meeting.

Carlow Kilkenny TD John Paul Phelan says they're not looking for agriculture to be exempt from the cuts:

Speaking at the official re-opening of Athlone Garda Station, Justice Minister Helen McEntee says she hopes new emission targets can be agreed on Wednesday: