CAP central focus of FG-IFA meeting – McCarthy

Fine Gael’s Agriculture Committee has met with senior representatives of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and had in-depth discussions about the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Noel McCarthy, who is chair of the Fine Gael Agriculture Committee said: “Farmers deserve clarity, stability and a CAP which continues to support those who are genuinely working the land.

“The proposals coming from the EU raise serious concerns and the engagement with the IFA is essential to ensure that Fine Gael is aligned with the needs of rural Ireland.”

In the meeting with IFA representatives which included its President Francie Gorman and Director of Policy Tadhg Buckley, Deputy McCarthy acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue between policymakers and farm organisations at a time of major change to the sector.

The IFA outlined its strong opposition to the removal of the current two-pillar structure of CAP and expressed deep concern about the potential loss of ringfenced agricultural funding.

Representatives warned that diverting CAP resources toward non-agricultural activities including solar development, would undermine the core purpose of the policy and weaken supports for active farmers.

Committee members reaffirmed their commitment to strong engagement with the IFA and Ireland’s MEPs to ensure Ireland priorities are reflected in EU negotiations.

Deputy McCarthy said, “Ireland is a major contributor to the EU budget, and it is vital that this is recognised in the next CAP. Protecting funding for active farmers will remain a core priority for this committee.”

Both groups agreed to meet again ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency starting in July with continued communication in the interim.

The committee’s next stakeholder meeting will take place with the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association in February.