A group of Fine Gael TDs and Senators say 'finger pointing' at the agriculture industry, could impact the country's reputation as a sustainable food producer.
John Paul Phelan, David Stanton, Charlie Flanagan, Paul Kehoe, John Cummins and Garret Ahearn, have issued a statement on the planned carbon emission cuts to the sector, claiming a 'false narrative' is putting all of the blame on farmers.
It comes as talks are continuing this week on the cuts, with question marks over whether it will be in the order of 22%, or 30%.
Carlow Kilkenny TD, John Paul Phelan says they're not looking for agriculture to be exempt from the cuts:
"We're seeking that the emissions would be at the lower end of the range that has already been pre agreed, currently that range is 22% to 30%. So we're not thinking that agriculture would be exempt. We are seeking that it would be at a level that can be achievable for farmers but also can be a significant reduction so anything up to 24 or 25% reduction in agricultural emissions."
