Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - Farm Retirement Scheme.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

329 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 177 of 24 June 2003, the implications of CAP reform on retired farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21006/03]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I have initiated a process of consultation with the social partners and other interested groups and individuals before deciding on the implementation of the decoupling elements of the agreement on the mid-term review of the CAP. Until this process is completed, it is not possible to say with complete certainty how the decoupling proposals will impact on retired farmers.

My officials are also involved in ongoing discussions with the European Commission on the detailed rules for implementing the agreement. While it may be some time yet before the position is clear, my officials have raised and continue to raise a number of issues relating to farmers who have retired under the early retirement schemes and the implications for them of the decoupling and single payment proposals. By definition, retired farmers cannot activate entitlements earned during the reference period and the Commission's position is that entitlements should not be linked to land but should go to farmers who were active during that period. However, it has also indicated that it favours arrangements that family members who were not farming during the reference period, but subsequently take over a holding, will have access to the national reserve. My officials are working to secure as favourable an outcome as possible, having regard to the legitimate aspirations of all stakeholders.