I rise to call out the deeply irresponsible actions of An Taisce. Yesterday, it sought to challenge Ireland's nitrates derogation, which we were successful in securing last year. This is a move that risks doing enormous damage to rural Ireland, farm families, the agrifood sector and the 7,000 farmers who are in derogation. Derogation is not a loophole or a shortcut, it is scientifically grounded and tightly regulated. It reflects the reality of Ireland's grass-based farming model. As I mentioned, it supports 7,000 family farms while still operating within a robust environmental framework. Despite all of this, we now see An Taisce asking the EU Commission to reconsider its decision to grant a nitrates derogation.

At a time when farmers are already under immense pressure as a result of rising costs, regulatory burdens and the growing global uncertainty, this action sends a terrible message that ideology is being prioritised over practicality and litigation over collaboration. We have to protect our water quality. Farmers want to protect their water quality. Anyone in derogation wants to protect water quality. Progress is made by working with farmers, not working against them, and by supporting behavioural change, investment and innovation rather than by seeking to query a decision that has already been made and that was fought hard for by the Minister for agriculture, MEPs and politicians here.

What An Taisce is doing risks undermining confidence. It could damage livelihoods and create division where unity is needed. If this succeeds, the consequences will be severe and will lead to reduced stocking rates, loss of income and a direct hit to rural economies right across the country. I urge An Taisce to reconsider this approach and to engage in meaningful dialogue instead of pursuing this adversarial action that will ultimately harm the very communities we are all meant to serve.

I want to put on the record my acknowledgement of the announcement by the Government yesterday in respect of dealing with the cost of fuel in light of the current situation in Iran. There has been significant engagement with the Irish Road Haulage Association, and there is a commitment to continue this engagement.

We cannot forget that we are an island nation and rely on hauliers to transport goods in and out of our island. This is always going to be something that needs be kept under review.

We perhaps need to consider an overall future strategy when it comes to excise duty in general. It is correct that we are collecting a significant amount of money in excise duties, more than many other European countries. The cost of fuel in Ireland is significantly higher than other countries. A more long-term review is needed. I call on the Leader to request a more long-term study or review on how we can ensure lorry and truck drivers and the haulage industry in this country can remain competitive because of the supply chain necessitated due to our being an island nation. Yesterday's announcement has to be welcomed and will make a difference. It is to be hoped this is a short-term difficulty and the situation in Iran will rectify itself. Even if it does, it will take some time before changes percolate down to the pockets of consumers of this country. I welcome the announcement.