The Danish experience and the debate on agricultural sector reform in Ireland

Denmark, whose population is comparable to that of Ireland, was the first in the EU to abolish the traditional ministry of agriculture. The new department — the Ministry of Nature and Animal Welfare — is intended to limit the influence of industry lobbyists on state policy. At the same time, the country plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85% within nine years, aiming for climate neutrality by 2045.

John Gibbons notes that a different situation has emerged in Ireland: the agricultural sector is oriented toward the export of beef and dairy products, while simultaneously being dependent on food imports. The author of the article points out that the current production model is exposed to risks due to climate change, which is confirmed by the repeated feed crises observed in 2013, 2018, 2022, and 2024. Despite significant areas of pasture, the country is forced to import millions of tons of feed and fertilizer.

The text expresses the opinion that current government documents, such as Food Wise 2025, reflect the interests of industrial players, and the activities of relevant departments and the Teagasc agency are aimed at supporting the expansion of the dairy sector. As an alternative, it is proposed to liquidate the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, as well as the Teagasc agency, replacing them with a new Ministry of National Food Security. The tasks of the new body could include auditing vulnerability to food shocks, developing organic agriculture, horticulture, and farming, as well as creating a strategic food reserve.

According to data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, Ireland is a net importer of food calories. The existing production model is viewed by critics as one based on the export of high-emission products, while a significant portion of the population's diet is provided through the import of goods from abroad.