Phil Prendergast (Labour)

If we believe in the future of Irish agriculture, we need to structure CAP in such a way that it will foster and encourage innovation, sustainability and quality. Deputy Sherlock, the Labour Party spokesperson on agriculture, has been calling for this approach for some time. That should not present any difficulty in terms of the Minister of State's philosophy. It is something on which a common response could be agreed. The response from Government so far has been a deafening silence. I welcome this opportunity to put the case to the Minister of State and I acknowledge that he is listening. I also noted that the Minister, Deputy Smith, who was in the House earlier, was taking notes during the debate. This is not like the usual forum where we say something that has no meaning or does not resonate with the Minister who is listening. I would like to think there is relevance to the debate. It certainly has an additional meaning when we can give positive examples and the Minister of State knows that what he is hearing is fact and not just rhetoric.

The devil is in the detail and the CAP is no different in that respect. It is obvious there are real concerns in the farming community that CAP will lead to a significant reduction in income within the agriculture sector. The fact that more than 900 farming families have been awarded a payment under the farm assist scheme since the start of the year is further proof that many families in rural areas are on the breadline. This is a worrying trend and reinforces the need to ensure any decisions regarding CAP will not further negate farm incomes.

We often make the mistake of thinking that the interests of those in rural areas are different from the interests of those who live in urban areas. Nothing could be further from the truth. We are one Ireland and all our interests are intertwined. Deputy Gilmore has said:

Real vibrant communities will not survive and thrive without some support. As the CAP moves more and more away from direct support for farmers, it can have a new role in protecting and enhancing rural life.

Small rural businesses, cottage industries and green energy can all be supported through a restructured CAP. We cannot hope to develop sustainable communities throughout rural areas unless farming is in a healthy and sustainable condition. I welcome this timely debate. It is time for the Government to engage with all stakeholders to ensure a fair reform of CAP to the benefit of all.