Farmers’ groups outline priorities for minister to pursue at CAP talks

THE Common Agricultural Policy health check negotiations entered a crucial phase at a Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels.

As the latest round of negotiations got under way, the Irish Farmers Association and the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) outlined the priorities they want Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith to pursue.

IFA president Padraig Walshe urged the minister to steadfastly resist proposed modulation cuts to the single farm payment, secure a loosening of milk quota restrictions and deliver a €30 per ewe sheep maintenance payment.

Mr Walshe said it is now abundantly clear that no EU government will invest a single euro of its own money to match the funds taken from farmers.

“At a minimum, Minister Smith must secure an opt-out for Ireland as he has consistently said he is totally opposed to any cut in the single farm payment,” he said.

Mr Walshe said quota restrictions must be removed in view of the EU policy to slash dairy market supports and Ireland’s butterfat adjustment updated.

John Tyrrell, director general of ICOS, the co-ops umbrella body, said it supports a yearly increase in milk quotas to prepare for their ending in six years’ time.

Meanwhile, Minister Smith said he expects the negotiations to be tough as there are a wide range of views on the big issues.

“I have done a great deal of groundwork with the commission, the presidency and other member states and all are aware of my views. I am clear on my priorities and will be pushing them strongly,” he said.