Disadvantaged areas plan opposed

Brussels: Proposals by the EU to redefine disadvantaged areas based on natural handicap rather than on the current socio-economic criteria must be strongly resisted by Mary Coughlan, says IFA rural development committee chairman Pádraic Divilly.

Mr Divilly, speaking at a COPA seminar in Brussels on the future rural development policy (2006- 2013), said the minister must take a strong stand in future discussions at EU level to avoid any losses for Ireland.

Some areas could lose out if proposals on disadvantaged areas are adopted by the EU Farm Council.