ICSA do U-turn to urge Yes vote
In a statement yesterday, it pointed to a number of positive developments since the last referendum, particularly the Fischler CAP reform proposals and the greater level of debate since the first ballot.
It said it had also given consideration to the wider national interest and that the decision by its national executive to recommend a Yes vote had been taken following a very comprehensive process of consultation with its members.
The ICSA said the Fischler reforms are far from perfect but the general direction signposted is broadly correct.
“ICSA believes that in an enlarged Europe we cannot continue to put the emphasis on overproduction of cheap food, but instead must focus on more restrained levels of production of high quality food for a European marketplace.
“Fischler has indicated that the current CAP, which has not worked for farmers, must change its emphasis, but he has also been very clear that support for the family farm must continue even in an enlarged Europe and that is critical.
“Accordingly, the decision of farmers in relation to the referendum can be taken in full awareness that change is inevitable, but that we can influence that change. ICSA cannot say Yes to Fischler and No to Nice”.
The ICSA said it is also happy that what has transpired since the last referendum vindicates its previous position.
Farmers can vote in a more informed way because of the announcement of a future direction for CAP, as well as with a better understanding because of the Forum on Europe and the many debates that have taken place since the last referendum.
It said its national executive has achieved a consensus position following in depth consultation. ICSA surveyed all of its members, allowed for debate at a full series of county meetings around the country and had a long debate over three consecutive national executive meetings.
The position has not been influenced by either political persuasion, or by any outside bodies or individuals. ICSA has made its decision solely based on the democratic process within the organisation, it said.
