Large turnout expected at rally against EU sugar reforms

Thousands of farmers are expected to take to the streets of Mallow in Co Cork today to voice their opposition to EU sugar reform proposals.

The Commission reform proposals include a two-step cut totalling 39% in the price for white sugar with compensation to farmers for 60% of the price cut through a decoupled payment.

African, Caribbean and Pacific countries, which traditionally export sugar to the EU, will benefit from an assistance programme worth €40m under these proposals.

The IFA say these new proposals would wipe out the livelihoods of beet growers in Ireland.

The Commission hopes for a political agreement on the proposals at the Agriculture Council in the next week.