Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith has said that food security must be prioritised in the next EU budget.

The Cavan-Monaghan TD emphasised the importance of food security, and said that this must be highlighted during the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU. 

Deputy Smith spoke this week at a reception in Cavan County Museum, Ballyjamesduff to honour the visit of H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to Ireland, Juris Stalmeistars and H.E. Ambassador of Ireland to Latvia, Marcella Smyth.

CAP

Deputy Smith said the proposal by the European Commission in respect of the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is "totally inadequate".

“The CAP was the first common policy of the EU," Deputy Smith said.

"By and large it has been very successful. Its aim has been to ensure a secure supply of safe food for the citizens of Europe.

"Under no circumstances can Ireland tolerate or countenance a reduction in CAP funding."

He said as Ireland holds the EU presidency, it must "very strongly advocate to ensure a properly and adequately funded CAP post-2027". 

"Food security is a particular priority in times of war and unfortunately we are dealing with an ongoing war on our continent," Deputy Smith continued. 

"It is vital that we continue to strengthen Ireland's agricultural sector, supporting farmers and maintaining our country's capacity to produce food."

Trade

The TD added: "I warmly welcome the visit of Ambassador Stalmeistars and Ambassador Smyth to Cavan and they outlined clearly the opportunities to strengthen Ireland/Latvian bilateral relations through increased trade, business and political links. 

"Ambassador Smyth, who is a native of Mountnugent, had particularly interesting insights regarding the future opportunities for both our nations to collaborate and work together. 

"It was very beneficial for all of us to hear the views of Ambassador Smyth on the challenges and opportunities ahead for Ireland while hosting the EU presidency."