The emphasis on environmental measures has never been more significant, yet too many farmers are unable to make a living wage. I'm hesitant to say it was successful, though, as one key issue with environmental schemes down through the years has been the lack of measurable impact. The big task for the next Minister for Agriculture will be ensuring all farmers buy into any environmental schemes introduced. There lies a danger with any new environmental scheme that a two-tier situation could be created. However, no farmers can be given a free pass or reduced requirements, while others are expected to carry the environmental can for everyone.

Source: Irish Independent June 16, 2020 01:38 UTC