Farmers urged to put on thinking CAP in drive to promote EU policy

A CAMPAIGN that encourages farmers to be the voice of the Common Agricultural Policy has been launched by Agri Aware in association with the European Commission.

It also aims to inform the public how the CAP, which is set for a major reform, provides for everybody, not just farmers.

Agri Aware said it is vital that the public is aware of how important the CAP is for them and their families.

“As it currently stands the CAP guarantees that every Irish citizen has access to safe, quality, traceable food at all times.

“Support from the CAP allows farmers to produce the quality foodstuffs that Ireland is internationally renowned for and is a vital contributor to the one-in-seven Irish jobs that rely on agriculture.

“From farmers to food processors and accountants, agriculture provides employment across many sectors.

“Furthermore, the CAP allows farmers to act as stewards of the countryside allowing farming and nature to co-exist naturally together.” To help farmers fulfil their role in the campaign, Agri Aware has developed three key messages around food, the economy and the environment.

Farmers will be equipped with information and examples on each point which they can easily relate back to their friends, neighbours and others in their community.

Agri Aware chairman, Bernard Donohue said many people don’t realise the integral role the CAP plays for the economy, food and environment. Now is the time to change that situation.

“Farmers knowing the CAP, are in a unique position as people are always more likely to listen, believe and trust somebody they already know above any other form of communication,” he said.

The campaign will have a large presence at this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Athy (September 21-23).

There will be seminars and quizzes during the three-day event and there will also be a large outdoor maze, with questions on the CAP.