Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

Does the Minister accept that the single farm payment, by virtue of its static nature since its introduction, is of declining value year on year to the agricultural community? I refer to further tampering with it, by way of reduction, in the light of agri-inflation in particular. The Minister is aware, for example, that the prices this year of fertiliser, energy and feedstuffs have increased by 62%, 20% and more than 20%, respectively. Any tampering with the value of these payments will adversely affect both agriculture and rural development because farmers are key to vibrant rural communities.

I refer to the French Presidency which commenced today. When President Sarkozy visits Ireland in the near future, will the Minister avail of the opportunity to impress on him and the French who, in general, are supportive of the Common Agricultural Policy that this matter will not be tolerated by Ireland in the context of the health check?

See this speech in context