Eugene Murphy (Roscommon-Galway, Fianna Fail)
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436. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a shortfall in funding (details supplied) will be made up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27475/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The European Commission has proposed, as part of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027, that the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) would be allocated approximately €78.6 billion for the period 2021-2027.  This represents a reduction in the region of 15% on the current period.

It should be noted that the proposal published by the European Commission is the initial MFF proposal. The final outcome will be determined by negotiations at EU level over the coming year.  Achieving Ireland’s priorities in these negotiations will be a key issue for the Government.

While the shape of any new Multi Annual Financial Framework is ultimately a matter for Finance Ministers, and the European Parliament, I have been working successfully with counterparts in other Member States to build support for the retention of a strong CAP budget.  

Over the coming months there will be detailed negotiations at all levels across the EU as we work together to shape the final outcome.  At the centre of all our considerations will be the need to ensure that CAP Post 2020, properly funded, will continue to support farm families and the rural economy.  

A decision regarding the level of funding to be provided for the various elements of Ireland’s Rural Development Programme will be made following the conclusion of the MFF negotiations in 2019.