931. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department intends to apply to the EU's CAP crisis reserve fund for funding to support farmers affected by the increase in fertiliser prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39969/26]

The geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East is continuing to put pressure on fertiliser prices, and on its likely availability as the year progresses. I therefore appreciate the focus on fertiliser at EU level, and the recognition that this is a significant farm input that has an impact on the cost of food production.

In that context, my Department is carefully considering the European Commission's Fertiliser Action Plan which was published last week. I look forward to engaging with the Commission on the implementation of its proposed short- and long-term responses, including any proposals the Commission may make in relation to the CAP crisis reserve.

My Department will continue to monitor the impact on input costs from the conflict in the Middle East, including in relation to fertiliser.