Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 May 2018
80. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the proposals he put forward at the EU Agriculture Council in relation to the need to increase funding for CAP post-2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23728/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) proposals for 2021-2027 were published by Budget Commissioner Gunther Oettinger on 2 May 2018. The negotiation of the framework is a matter for Finance Ministers, and the proposals will ultimately require the approval of the European Council and the European Parliament.
In so far as the funding for the Common Agricultural Policy is concerned, the proposal indicates a cut of around 5% for the next MFF period of 2021 - 2027.
I believe that European agriculture policies have delivered for Irish farmers and consumers and it is important that support continues to be provided to these programmes. Over the next few years farm families will be required to play a vital role in the protection and enhancement of the environment and the production of food to the highest standards in the world. These high standards, and the family farm model, are part of the fabric of European values. EU citizens have shown that they support this model.
We need farmers to take active steps to mitigate climate change, protect water quality and biodiversity, and improve their competitiveness. A strong CAP is a prerequisite if these objectives, which are in the best interests of all citizens, are to be achieved.
Member States are facing into a difficult negotiation, however, and a number have already indicated that they are not willing to provide additional funding for the MFF. From Ireland's perspective, the Taoiseach has already indicated that we are prepared to contribute additional funding, but only if critical policies are supported.
It should be noted that the proposal published by the European Commission is the initial MFF proposal. The final outcome will be determined by negotiations at EU level over the coming year. Achieving Ireland’s priorities in these negotiations will be a key issue for the Government.
In that context, I have discussed with my counterparts at the EU Agriculture Council the importance of a strong CAP Post 2020 budget. I will continue to work with my colleagues across Europe on these matters as do my officials.
The next stage in the CAP post 2020 process will be the publication of the legislative proposals, which are due in early June. In that context, I look forward to engaging constructively with the Presidency, my European counterparts and the European Commission, to ensure that the next CAP continues to provide necessary support to the Irish and European agriculture sector. I would like to reassure the deputy that I will continue to seek a strong budget for CAP in the upcoming negotiations.
