CAP crucial for a 'more sustainable farming system' in Ireland - senator
Farming can be "sustainable and profitable" but there needs to be the right Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in place to support this, politicians are urging.
The future of CAP post 2027 has been thrust firmly into the spotlight as Ireland prepares to take over the presidency of the Council of the European Union, from July to December next year.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, has said that the Irish government will fight at EU level for a well-funded CAP.
He has also emphasised that he "wants to ensure the "particular nuances of Irish agriculture and the impacts on Irish farmers, as well as the importance of agriculture to the Irish economy, are clearly understood by my colleagues across Europe".
But politicians have also warned that CAP, which is currently worth almost €10 billion to Irish farmers," "must protect farm incomes, support climate goals and recognise farmers are hard working".
Senator Victor Boyhan said: "It is important to remember that CAP plays an important role in advancing Ireland and EU agriculture towards a more sustainable farming system.
"With that comes innovation, technology, new learning, information transition, which is very much a part of the scheme, and new farm schemes.
"The CAP seeks to fortify rural socioeconomic structures, strengthen farm incomes, ensure food security, drive climate action, help to safeguard our natural resources and enhance biodiversity. That can all be done in a sustainable and profitable way."
Separately the Fine Gael TD , Michael Murphy, also said Ireland's presidency of the EU "represents a real opportunity to deliver a CAP that is properly funded and supports food production".
Deputy Murphy added: “The timing of our presidency coincides with discussions around the next Multiannual Financial Framework, which will bring added pressure to increase spending in the areas of defence, climate, digitalisation and migration, all of which are important.
“However, a key priority for Ireland must be an increased CAP budget towards 2030 and beyond".
He said that the country faces a "real challenge" in attracting younger people and new entrants in to a career in farming because the future of Irish agriculture depends on attracting the next generation of farmers.
“We urgently need a CAP that is properly funded and supports food production.
"This was the primary ambition when it was founded and must remain our priority for Ireland’s presidency," Deputy Murphy added.
