“Public food procurement is a positive, ‘carrot’-style policy and far more effective than the threat of sanctions and fines”
Labour Councillor Elaine McGinty received unanimous support of Meath County Councillors this week when she called call Government to radically rethink Ireland’s food production strategy and to consider a policy of public food procurement
“Public food procurement is a positive, ‘carrot’-style policy and far more effective than the threat of sanctions and fines” she said.
“If introduced in Meath and beyond, it would use Government buying power to promote healthier food that is produced using ecologically friendly farming methods.
“The emphases are on local sustainable production and reducing our carbon footprint.
“This will not only support our local economy here in Meath, but also create a greater connection between farmers and the Irish public as we move towards a more sustainable and greener economy.
“One can only imagine what this measure could do for the Boyne Valley and all its local food producers. Using local farmers and their produce in our hospitals, school canteens and government buildings is a game and market changer. It allows farmers to plan, scale and organically move towards a more sustainable food production model.
“The good news is that it works and it doesn’t break competition law. Denmark, a leader in this area, has shown that it achieves remarkable results.
“Rather than relying solely on funding to farmers to move to organic farming, it is stimulating new market demand for organic food by prioritising it in public procurement contracts. In doing so, it creates a market incentive for farmers to switch to organic production.
“The Government is under pressure to introduce “emergency” correction measures to reduce carbon emissions across the economy or face massive and ever-increasing fines that need to get practical and proactive.
“A radical public procurement strategy for food using the immense buying power of the government is a game changer and within our control.”
Speaking ahead of the Council meeting, Cllr McGinty said bravery is required to bring together a new vision for food production, one that includes farming communities whilst also pushing Ireland towards a greener economy.
“Ireland has introduced a vast amount of legislation relating to climate change over the last number of years” Cllr McGinty said. “However, the stern warnings from government and environmental groups, continue to highlight “a rapidly widening gap between Irish climate ambition and Irish climate action.”
“The time for paying lip service to the climate crisis is well and truly over. What’s needed now is practical and urgent solutions. That is what my motion seeks to provide.
“This motion is looking at an area that is fully within our control and could in fact be a catalyst for a faster and lasting change.
“Agriculture is such an important industry for this country, not just economically, but socially. Yet the debate around the agricultural sector has become very adversarial and polarised, it is in dire need of some good and positive news.”
