ICSA president Sean McNamara has welcomed the progress in discussions on government formation and the publication of the draft Programme for Government, which includes several key commitments for agriculture. However, he stressed that while these commitments are important, they remain only promises until fully delivered.

"For cattle and sheep farmers, the commitments to increasing financial supports and reducing administrative burdens are encouraging - but commitments alone are not enough. We fully intend to hold the government accountable for these promises. We also want to see payments for suckler, beef, and sheep farmers front-loaded, so that the biggest financial boost can happen in year one of the government term. This would help keep these farmers in business rather than forcing them to give up, as has been the case in recent times," he said.

Continuing, Mr McNamara said, “The upcoming CAP negotiations will be a defining moment, and the government must fight hard to secure a budget increase, simplified payment schemes, and additional funding outside CAP for environmental measures. With Ireland assuming the EU presidency in 2026, there is a significant opportunity to shape CAP in a way that genuinely benefits Irish farmers, and this opportunity must be seized.”

“A strong and unified opposition to the Mercosur trade deal is another area where action - not just words - is required. It is not enough for the government to oppose this deal in principle; they must actively collaborate with like-minded EU nations to block it and safeguard the livelihoods of Irish farmers. The same applies to the Nature Restoration Law. While the commitment that all measures under this law will remain entirely voluntary for farmers is welcome, it must be upheld in practice.”

“Generational renewal is another critical issue that requires follow-through. The formation of the Commission for Generational Renewal in Farming was a positive step. We now need to see policies developed and implemented that will support both new entrants and those exiting the sector.”

On promoting the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for Irish Grass Fed Beef, Mr McNamara said he wanted to see the financial benefits of the PGI standard reaching primary producers. “We want to see our frontline beef farmers reap the financial rewards of having a PGI, and we also want to see a PGI for premium suckler beef.”

“ICSA also welcomes the commitments on protecting live exports, retaining the nitrates derogation, and strengthening the Agri-Food Regulator’s powers to improve transparency in the food supply chain. These are vital issues that will require genuine commitment and determination to ensure the right outcomes for Irish farmers.”

Concluding, Mr McNamara said, "This draft Programme for Government contains many positive commitments, but words alone are not enough; delivery is what truly matters. We look forward to engaging on these many important issues with the new Minister and Ministers of State within the Department of Agriculture once the government is formed."