Ian Marshall (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support the comments of fellow Members expressing concerns about a reduction in CAP payments and support mechanisms for farmers. It is important that we make very clear that it is not this industry's desire to receive handouts or support payments. It is a situation at which the industry has arrived through no fault of its own. The reality is that a drive and ambition to get cheaper and cheaper food has left us in a system where these people are wholly dependent on support mechanisms from Brussels. That said, we need to be very clear. We all refer to sustainable agriculture. What is sustainability? We are all aware of the three pillars of sustainability: economic, environmental and social. Very often, the social side of it is the bit that is overlooked because Ireland, both North and South, is completely dependent on the success and vibrancy of its rural economy. If the rural economy is doing well, the country will do well and that is an important thing to note. There will be huge concerns if we overlook the importance of the creation of jobs and wealth in rural economies. If we want to retain jobs and businesses in the rural economy, first and foremost, farming and agriculture must be profitable. If we are serious about keeping young people on the land and stopping migration to cities and other parts of the world, it is important that we resist any temptation to reduce support mechanisms. We should remember that this is not about farm support, it is about cheap food support mechanisms.