Germany vows to simplify CAP

GERMANY has indicated that it intends to make simplification of the Common Agricultural Policy a core issue when it assumes the presidency of the European Union in January.

Some 20 working groups on the issue are planned by the German Federal Minister for Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Horst Seehofer.

Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan discussed the issue with Mr Seehofer at a meeting in Berlin this week.

She said Ireland’s view is that CAP simplification should be about practical measures to reduce bureaucracy and to ease the administrative burden for farmers. Addressing the practical issues surrounding compliance, such as record keeping, the extent of controls and the often complicated conditions that farmers must meet, will be key.

“Mr Seehofer agrees that time on paperwork must be reduced and farmers must be left free to farm,” she said.

ICMSA deputy leader John O’Leary said yesterday there is growing anger among farmers regarding unannounced inspections being carried out by the Department of Agriculture and Food under the single payment scheme.

Mr O’Leary said the ICMSA position is that farmers should get 14 days notice of inspection.

“However, the department has failed to pursue the matter and farmers are being placed in an impossible position as a result,” he said.

Mr O’Leary urged Ms Coughlan to immediately suspend unannounced inspections.