Tom Barry (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I am glad to speak on these proposals, which are close to my heart. It was good to see the legal proposals on CAP that were published yesterday. Significantly, Ireland will retain its EU allocation almost completely. The EU is committed to maintaining CAP spending at 2013 levels into the future. One small thing that is worth noting is the doubling of funding for research and innovation in food security, the bioeconomy and sustainable agriculture. The proposed level of spending here is €5 billion, which is important, because research and development are key in achieving more productivity from the land we have.

The legal proposal also recognises a number of challenges, and high on the list is food security. This is something that has been spoken about a lot, but I do not think people realise what it really means. Food security is something one only misses when one does not have it. We have had cheap oil, cheap money and cheap food, but oil is no longer cheap and neither is money, and food will not always be cheap. However, if we have a progressive attitude and make sure our lands are as productive as possible, we will keep it affordable.

I also welcome the news that sugar quotas are to go in 2015. This is something for which I have fought for a long time, as has the Minister, who has been there from the start. The EU recognises that changes need to be made. Sugar has become scarce and expensive and obviously it is prepared to consider the issue again. I have spoken to the Minister, who has presented a clear plan and is very supportive. I welcome the allocation of 2% of the direct payment envelope to young farmer schemes. Such payments helped me when I went into farming. There must always be new generations of young people entering farming.

As a commercial tillage farmer, I recognise the possibility of a reduced single farm payment cheque. We are fortunate that the Minister understands this and will seek flexibility, so that whatever the level of reduction, it will not be too harsh or too quick. Ireland is expected to retain its share of pillar 2 funding. While the proposals are out there, there is much talking to be done before we achieve a final settlement. An inclusive approach is needed to bring everybody together. I compliment the IFA on its engagement with the process and I look forward to future developments.

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