Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael)
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I welcome this discussion. These meetings give us an opportunity to think about CAP and the position in which it has put Europe and its member states. We are the largest agrifood exporter in the world. Many of the concerns which our farmers have are about South American countries having access to the market, but we are the biggest agrifood exporter. Why are we the biggest agrifood exporter? As has been said, it is because we have quality food, traceability, sustainability and innovation. Our country is punching above its weight. We are leading the way and pioneering in many areas. It is very heartening because it means that we are carrying on a tradition into modern times. We know the world has to be fed and that there are climate change targets, so all of that is very good.

I know that, for good reason, we can be cynical about simplification, an issue which Deputy Cahill raised. Simplification is absolutely key from many points of view. It is an issue which Commissioner Hogan has to take a hold of and he must ensure we see some results from it. Farmers want to farm. They are busy enough farming. They do not want to be constantly tied up with documents and bureaucracy and so on. In all of this it is key that, for once, rather than managing agricultural schemes and measures in minute detail, Europe sets out the broad objectives but empowers member states, including Ireland, to implement them in a style and in a fashion which is no less accountable, but which is appropriate to the unique Irish farming situation, farm families and so on.

As we know, questions have rightly been put about what has led us to Brexit. Very often, when there is volatility in the markets, in farming or in security, we see a rise in anti-European sentiment. That sentiment gave breath or life to Brexit. When these types of issues arise, the Irish Government has to point to Europe, which it is right to do in many cases. That is not very desirable because for the most part, other than in the case of our MEPs, government is at local level. Elected local and national politicians are the people in whom the general populace has put its faith. Therefore, they need to be trusted.

Implementing such a formula, perhaps in a number of sectors across the European Union, might inspire more confidence and more realism, because it is all too easy to blame Europe at times. It would definitely be more empowering for us as a country and better for the European Union. It has to be about more than simplification, even though I accept what Mr. Gleeson said about simplification not being a given if more power is given to governments. It has to be both. We cannot keep just being messengers for Europe. That is not to take away from all the work which goes into negotiating the CAP and the fine job which was done previously.

We have to be more active players as this is critical for us and the European Union. I know that some advances are being made in the simplification of the Common Agricultural Policy and wonder what that will entail. I would welcome the comments of the officials on the areas where we could take a grip of the situation and best proceed at national level. Could there be more autonomy in how we design schemes while at the same time complying with the overall objectives?