€11 billion over seven years secured for Irish farmers

Fine Gael Sligo Leitrim Senator and Seanad Spokesperson on Agriculture Michael Comiskey today (Tuesday) welcomed agreement reached in Brussels on the EU budget securing €11 billion over seven years for Irish farmers.   The funding was secured by An Taoiseach at the EU Summit and guarantees funding of over €1.5 billion per year for Irish farmers from direct payments, rural development and market supports.

“In securing direct payments Ireland fought off substantial pressure to cut the overall CAP budget by up to 30% from those seeking a redistribution of funds among Member States.

“The direct payment system is not just vital to the sustainability of Irish farms but also to the wider rural community in which famers are employers and consumers.   The beneficial effects of this deal to local communities cannot be understated.

“With agreement now reached on EU agricultural funding negotiations on CAP reform for 2014 to 2020 can now proceed.   At this important juncture Ireland is in the envious position of holding the President of the Council of Agriculture Ministers.   I know Minister Coveney will maintain a strong position in seeking maximum flexibility for Ireland in the distribution of payments and in relation to the “greening” element.

“Importantly provision will be made for the first time for an agriculture crisis reserve fund which would respond to situations which may arise from to time and result in a loss of consumer confidence in the industry.

“I would like to thank An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD for the commitment which he showed in advocating Ireland’s position.   I know equal commitment to Ireland’s interests will be demonstrated by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney TD in negotiating the details of a reformed common agricultural policy.”