IFA boss warns of a global food crisis
A GLOBAL food emergency could be one of the consequences of the wrong measures being taken to solve the climate emergency, IFA President, Tim Cullinan, warned at the association’s AGM last week.
He told delegates from across the country that too many policy decisions on climate were being taken without a proper analysis of the consequences
Not every country can produce its own food. We are fortunate that our island is an ideal location for food production,” said Tim Cullinan.
He warned that with the world’s population set to increase from 7.5 billion today to 10 billion by 2030, global demand for meat and dairy produce would be increasing.
“Who will supply this food? There is a real risk that we will create a global food emergency trying to solve the climate emergency.
“Input prices are rocketing across Europe and the globe. Whether we like it or not, less fertiliser and other inputs will also mean less food output,” he said.
He said that his comments were made in the context of farmers ‘not shirking’ their responsibilities on climate action, but he warned against imposing solutions without consultation.
“Ignoring the economic contribution of farming to the rural economy would be a monumental own goal.
“Since 1990, our output has increased by 40% and our emissions have remained largely unchanged. A balance between environmental, economic and social sustainability will be needed,” he said.
The IFA President also delivered a broadside against the influence of the Green Party on Irish agriculture and at Government level. “We cannot have a party with 12 TDs out of 160 ruling the roost,” he said.
For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.
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