ICSFA postpone decision on Nice referendum until questions answered
General secretary Eddie Punch accused the Yes proponents of an ongoing failure to engage in debate on the relevance of enlargement to the future of farming in Ireland.
He said farmers want to be told the truth. They want to hear the information. They were not fools. They know and understand that change in agricultural policy is inevitable, partially though not exclusively because of enlargement.
Mr Punch said many farmers have reacted positively to what they perceive as an honest attempt by EU Farm Commissioner Franz Fischler to face up to pressures for change while still trying to ensure there will be supports into the future.
“The problem is that the Government, in manoeuvring to sweep debate under the carpet, has simply added to the frustration of the farming electorate,” he said.
Mr Punch, who criticised the postponement of a proposed visit to Ireland by Commissioner Fischler, said it is still very difficult to be enthusiastic about recommending a Yes vote when so much needs to be clarified.
He said the ICSA is seeking a meeting with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to discuss the issues. It will adopt a reasonable stance, provided there is openness.
Last week’s Forum on Europe meeting in Ennis would hopefully be the beginning of an honest attempt to engage with the farming electorate, he said.
