More clarity needed on Nature Restoration regulations

Farming organisations have called for more clarity on regulation funding and suggested that state bodies should lead by example ahead of private landowners

Farming organisations also raised concerns around the principle that participation will be voluntary.

Following the publication of the Independent Advisory Council on Nature Restoration, farming organisations have called for clarity and for state agencies to lead by example.

Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) Environment and Rural Affairs chair John Murphy said the true financial and practical implications of nature restoration remain unknown, without clarity on the role of the State and what will be required of farmers.

“There is a lack of clarity on what is actually being asked of farmers, and critically, how it will be funded. There was a clear expectation when the regulation was passed in 2024 that the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund would support nature restoration. 

"That funding has since been diverted, which has seriously undermined confidence,” he said.

Mr Murphy questioned the widely referenced €700m per year figure for restoration costs, describing it as a headline estimate rather than a detailed assessment based on actual measures.

“This is very much a headline figure. Without a detailed plan setting out the specific restoration measures required… It is impossible to determine the true cost.” 

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Mr Murphy said these new proposals need to be backed by “dedicated funding outs of CAP — no shortfalls and no uncertainty.” 

Mr Murphy also raised concerns around the principle that participation will be voluntary. “There is a lot of concern and distrust that this could gradually shift towards pressure through regulation or penalties, particularly if targets are not being met.”

Similar concerns were shared by Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) deputy president, Eamon Carroll, who sat on the advisory committee that released the Nature Restoration Law Report.

“The key message here is that any participation by farmers must be voluntary and there can be no degree whatsoever of compulsion,” he said.

Mr Carroll called for state agencies to lead by example first and allow farmers to follow.

“ICMSA will expect state agencies like Coillte and Bord na Mona to lead the way and prioritise their own lands for restoration before any question of voluntary measures even arises on private farmers’ land,” said Mr Carroll.

Mr Carroll concluded by saying “farmers are happy to play our part”, but they have to be able to make a living, and any actions must be “fully and demonstrably funded”.