Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With reference to Mr. Gray's comments about the CAP, it is heartening to see the front page of the Irish Farmers' Journal, with a story on Commissioner Cioloş condemning the proposal of President Herman van Rompuy, as did our Minister and MEPs. The Commissioner is equally concerned. The issue arose and it is an unfortunate aspect within the dynamic of the EU. I do not think the Minister will sort it out. It will need the heads of Government. Co-decision means the UK position has made it very difficult and it is of concern to all of us. We may work out the formula for CAP but the figures will have to be adjusted in accordance with the final budget.

Yesterday, we had a meeting with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine about the budget. Some suggestions we made were the same. Regarding taxation, the Minister has made submissions to the Department of Finance and the Revenue Commissioners on the fragmentation and consolidation of capital gains exclusions. In other areas, the Minister is in agreement with the witnesses. The Minister is facing a challenge on cuts. Mr. Gilmartin's point about donkeys is something none of us have thought about bringing to the table. Yesterday, a suggestion was made of different stocking rate levels in disadvantaged and mountain areas, with a slightly higher minimum set to reflect the quality of the land according to designation. This was the point made by Deputy Ó Cuív.

There is some trimming that can be done without it having an effect and the effort is to try to protect those who need it most. We may not get an opportunity because the Minister is under serious pressure at the moment to draft his budget for the Department of Finance but this submission is now on the record and along with the other submissions, it will be sent to the Minister's office.