Sir, – Paul R Price and Barry McMullin of Dublin City University write: “Our research indicates that a cut of over 40 per cent in agricultural methane by 2030 would be required for Ireland to meet the Paris Agreement goals on a globally equitable basis” (Letters, July 14th).
If this is true then it is reasonable to assume that the numbers of ruminant animals in this country would have to be reduced on a similar basis if the target is to be achieved.
The real question then is who is going to pay for this loss of income to Irish farmers? Are the good gentleman willing to accept higher taxes to compensate those affected?
From what we see happening in the Netherlands at the moment, where the government there is promising billions of euro in compensation to Dutch farmers as they seek to compel them to reduce their cattle numbers, the outcome is far from certain. – Is mise,
TOM McELLIGOTT,
Listowel,
Co Kerry.