Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is an ongoing consultation process throughout the country on the Common Agricultural Policy. There is a roadshow, if I can use that phrase, to nearly every part of the country. Everybody is free to attend, whether as individuals or part of an organisation. I have attended two. There is one main issue - the amount of money involved. It is not about the active farmer or anything else but the amount of money involved, which clearly is very important. The budget is crucial and there will be a major discussion about it. If we have more subsidiarity and give member states more flexibility, it will be a crucial part of the process. However, I take the point which I will convey to the Minister that there should be engagement with all stakeholders when the time comes.