Liz McManus
Ceist:27 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on reports that 45% of Irish people support the common agricultural policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4955/02]
Written Answers. - Common Agricultural Policy.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the findings of the Eurobarometer opinion polls on the common agricultural policy which were carried out by the EU Commission in 2000 and 2001.
The results of these polls show that, across the general population, the approval rating for the CAP was high in Ireland. Among the farming population, Irish farmers indicated the highest approval rating in the EU in relation to the way in which the CAP fulfils a specified list of important roles including: ensuring that farm products are safe and of no danger; providing stable, adequate incomes for farmers; protecting small or medium-sized farms; helping farmers to adapt their production to consumers' expectations; promoting and improving life in the countryside; and promoting respect for the environment.
I believe that these findings confirm that EU membership has been particularly beneficial for the Irish agriculture and food industries and for our rural communities by enhancing farmers' incomes and improving living standards. Society at large has benefited in the form of a better environment, higher levels of food safety, additional employment in food processing and a positive contribution to our balance of payments.