Agri minister to address UN food systems summit
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue is expected to discuss key measures in the new Food Vision 2030 strategy during an EU food systems summit today. Picture: Chris Bellew/Fennell Photography.
Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, will address a major UN food systems summit on Ireland's role as one of the global leaders in sustainable food production, later today.
The Minister will also outline some of the key measures contained within the new Food Vision 2030 strategy for Ireland's food sector.
“The bedrock of our pioneering and innovative agri-food sector is our farmers, fishers and food producers as well as our processing sector,” he added.
“Each of these are constantly evolving and advancing their ambitions to drive ambition in our sector.
"Ireland has a rich history in producing safe, traceable and sustainable food. By taking key steps now, we are ensuring that our future is as bright as our past.
"I am delighted that the Government has approved the publication of the new strategy for the agri-food sector, 'Food Vision 2030 – A World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems'.
“The Strategy, which was developed by a Committee of agri-food stakeholders, envisages a transformational pathway to a position of world leadership in 'Sustainable Food Systems' by dealing with the three pillars of sustainability: economic, environmental and social.
“I particularly welcome the food-systems, mission-based approach proposed by the Committee.
“The report will be officially launched in the coming weeks and I am confident it will be a robust roadmap for our sector for the next decade.”
Meanwhile, the Strategy is a framework for the agri-food sector that revolves around four high-level missions:
- A climate-smart, environmentally sustainable agri-food sector;
- Viable and resilient primary producers with enhanced wellbeing;
- Food that is safe, nutritious and appealing, trusted and valued both at home and overseas;
- Achieving an innovative, competitive and resilient sector, driven by technology and talent. These are underpinned by a series of key goals and actions designed to achieve a system-wide transformation over the next 10 years.
