Franz Fischler New CAP reform proposals
The European Union Agriculture Commissioner, Franz Fischler, unveiled his proposals for reform of the Common Agriculture Policy earlier today. Presenting the proposals in Brussels, he said the reform would give farmers more control over their business and lead to higher incomes.
The plan sets proposed annual cuts in farmer subsidies, breaks the link between subsidy and output, and reduces minimum guaranteed prices for cereals, among other areas. The plan will be debated by the EU's 15 farm ministers next week.
The proposals have been heavily criticised by the main farm organisations who say it will cause an income drop for beef and dairy farmers.
Minister Walsh to oppose measures
The Minister for Agriculture, Joe Walsh, said it was still very difficult to assess what damage the proposals would have on this country.
He said, however, that one of his biggest worries was how long the subsidies would remain under the new arrangements.
Mr Walsh told RTÉ he would oppose the measures very strongly in Brussels next week, but would fight to get a good outcome to the negotiations.
The Minister is to meet the main farm organisations in the morning for talks about the new proposals.
