CAP budget must be prioritised during Ireland’s EU Presidency – Murphy

Ireland’s EU Presidency next year represents a real opportunity to deliver a CAP that is properly funded and supports food production, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Ireland will hold the EU Presidency from July to December 2026. During that period, Irish Ministers will be responsible for chairing meetings of the Council and steering the EU’s legislative and policy agenda.

Deputy Michael Murphy said: “It’s so important that we maximise the impact of Ireland’s EU Presidency in 2026 to ensure Ireland’s position, influence and reputation in the EU continues to grow and strengthen.

“The timing of our Presidency coincides with discussions around the next Multiannual Financial Framework, which will bring added pressure to increase spending in the areas of defence, climate, digitalisation and migration, all of which are important.

“However, a key priority for Ireland must be an increased CAP budget towards 2030 and beyond.

“We have a real challenge of attracting young people and new entrants into a career in farming. Ageing demographics in the farm sector are a widely recognised issue nationally. The future of Irish agriculture depends on attracting the next generation of farmers.  The older generation, who have given a lifetime to the sector and possess significant expertise and knowledge, must be supported while viable pathways are created for young people to enter the sector.

“We urgently need a CAP that is properly funded and supports food production. This was the primary ambition when it was founded and must remain our priority for Ireland’s Presidency.

“Government is committed to fighting for an increased budget for CAP, as well as simplifying the CAP post 2027 to ensure simplified payments for farmers. Ireland’s EU Presidency in 2026 will be a crucial lever to delivering priorities for Ireland and that is why the strategy needs to be planned for now.”