Consumers' input to CAP debate welcomed
Charlie Reilly, president of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association, said consumers need to understand the importance of CAP, not only for farmers but also in the delivery of safe and high-quality product to their table.
He said the ICSA is fully supportive of the inclusion of the Consumer Liaison Panel in the debate of CAP as farmers are consumers themselves and would want an independent voice in any discussions.
The Consumer Liaison Panel has committed itself to a full debate on the proposals at a future meeting, taking into account the implications of the measures outlined in the EU Commission document, on the areas of food safety, food quality and availability.
It said it is also keen to assess how the radical proposals may impact on the rural environment and rural development. It noted the intention of the EU Commission to increase spending on rural development.
Panel members also noted that to-date the debate in Ireland has centred on the direct implications of the reforms on farming.
A wider debate on the proposals is required, with all parties represented, including consumer interests, the panel said.
To this end, the panel has written to Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh asking that his Department begin a process of informing consumers and the public on the issues involved in the complex area of reform of the CAP.
Panel chairperson Mairéad McGuinness said consumers need access to information in an accessible format to allow them fully participate in the current debate about the future of European farming and the rural landscape.
“Consumers are constantly being referred to in relation to food quality, safety, animal welfare and environmental matters but very often find that they have little real input into policy in these areas,” she said.
“To allow consumers fully participate, a genuine effort must be made to communicate effectively with them on the debate over CAP reform, which will undoubtedly have implications for consumers of food and for the rural environment.”
