Plea for struggling farmers to be supported as CAP negotiations loom

THE Family Farmers Association in Britain has called on the European Commission to provide ongoing financial support for working livestock producers and growers unable to make a living from agriculture.

A blueprint for the Common Agricultural Policy after 2013 is to be published by Brussels in November, triggering detailed negotiations, debate and eventual decisions.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Brendan Smith is holding a series of meetings in other EU member states where he is outlining Ireland’s vision for a strong and properly funded CAP after 2013.