Convergence is a mandatory provision in the current Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) programme and the new CAP proposals continue with this policy. Ireland has supported this element of these proposals. Convergence aims to redistribute and flatten the value of CAP payment entitlements and like all elements of the CAP, there are differing views regarding its implementation.
The new legislative proposals for the CAP include a continuation of the process of internal convergence, to a minimum of 75% of the national average. The European Parliament is seeking for a higher level of convergence. Final agreement on the CAP is dependent on the outcome of trilogue negotiations between the three institutions, which are aimed at reaching a final shared agreement on the shape of the new CAP. I am hopeful that these will conclude shortly.
The Department continues to monitor the proposed changes, including changes to convergence, and is engaged on an ongoing basis with European colleagues as well as stakeholders here. This close engagement and monitoring of the proposals on farmers in Ireland will continue until the regulations are fully developed and will, in due course, inform the implementation of new CAP regulations in Ireland.
I intend on fully engaging with farmers and farm organisations to get their views on convergence before I make a decision. I understand this is an issue with far reaching consequences and I want to put farmers at the centre of a decision on their future.
