Common Agricultural Policy.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2004

Wednesday, 24 March 2004

Questions (48)

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

48 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when he foresees EU support for agriculture decreasing; the extent to which he expects it to decrease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9233/04]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The European Council in October 2002 decided on the EU budget allocations for the CAP until 2013. As part of the mid-term review of Agenda 2000, the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers agreed in June 2003 to the introduction of a financial discipline mechanism, which will apply from 2007 to ensure CAP budget allocations will not be exceeded. I am not aware of any proposals for a reduction in the overall levels of EU support for agriculture.