Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
2451. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the GAEC 2 proposal in the new CAP; and if he will guarantee that this land continues to be viewed as eligible agricultural land and ensure there will be no reduction in farmers' CAP payments as a result. [18354/21]
View answerThe CAP post-2020 legislative proposals were launched in June 2018 by Commissioner Hogan. The proposals outline a greater environmental ambition in the next programming period and recognise the role the agriculture sector has to play in helping Member States achieve their environmental and climate change targets.
Trilogue negotiations between the three institutions, which are aimed at reaching a final shared agreement on the shape of the new CAP, commenced at the end of 2020, and are ongoing. One of the issues still to be agreed upon is the proposed new green architecture, which is aimed at achieving a higher level of climate ambition.
The proposed CAP Strategic Plan Regulation introduces GAEC 2 in Annex lll with a view to protecting wetland and peatland ecosystems. It is important to note that the Council General Approach includes proposed amendments to ensure that agricultural land which is subject to measures relating to climate change, environmental or biodiversity objectives will remain eligible hectares with regard to receipt of Direct Payments.
My Department is carefully considering all aspects of the CAP proposals in order to assess their potential impact on farmers. However, final agreement on the CAP is dependent on the outcome of the trilogue process, which is expected in the coming months. I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to actively participate in the negotiation process and work with my European counterparts to secure the best possible outcome for the Irish agri-food sector.
My strong desire is to ensure the protection of farmers on peatlands is central to the GAEC regulations and I am committed to delivering the best outcome to farmers in the these regions.
