There is a heavy focus on tree-planting within the new ACRES scheme. Planting of trees is not a short-term measure and the environmental dividends are long-lasting.

Therefore, farmers who carry out these activities in the years prior to an environmental scheme opening and without any financial support should receive some credit retrospectively.

Surely where, on inspection, this work is deemed to meet the environmental objectives of a new environmental schemes, these farmers should be entitled to access the same financial supports – either directly through the ACRES scheme or within eco-scheme measures.

There must be some way found to incentivise rather than discourage farmers who are committed to continuously enhancing the environmental aspects of their farms.

Tax relief required for herd reductions

Some farmers are already moving to adjust their livestock enterprise ahead of what will be a sharp reduction in their CAP payment in 2023. Heavily stocked and/or full-time suckler farmers are most exposed. But where farmers move to reduce stock numbers, income tax can become a major issue. A tax regime that further penalises farmers who are effectively being forced to reduce stock in line with Government policy is not sensible. There is an opportunity for Government to address this in the budget. A voluntary tax relief measure for farmers on any financial gain derived from reducing stock numbers needs to be considered.

Open day to learn how to cut emissions

On Tuesday 30 August, many of the technologies to work towards the 25% emission reduction target will be on show at Teagasc Johnstown Castle. The Irish Farmers Journal is delighted to work with Teagasc on this event. From methane reduction to improving water quality, all of the advice is in one spot for grassland farmers.

The Irish Farmers Journal will run a machinery demonstration. Clover was over-sown at the site in April and the results will be on display. The different sowing methods will be demonstrated, along with different slurry spreading techniques.