Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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By way of introduction I would point out that in discussing the funding of the Common Agricultural Policy, we should bear in mind that this funding forms part of a broader EU budget which is negotiated by Finance Ministers and then agreed by the European Council and European Parliament.

The European Commission has, as part of its Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period, 2021-2027, proposed that funding for the Common Agricultural Policy should amount to €365 billion. This is a cut of around 5% compared to the period to 2020.

The MFF proposals also provide for spending in areas such as research, migration and defence, which are priorities for some Member States. The loss of UK contributions to the EU budget will make these negotiations particularly challenging.

Nonetheless, this is an initial proposal only. The final outcome will be determined by agreement at EU level. The shape of any new Multi Annual Financial Framework is ultimately a matter for Finance Ministers and the European Council. The agreement of the European Parliament will also be required.

Throughout these negotiations, achieving Ireland’s priorities will be a key issue for the Government. Ireland has stated clearly that it is important that traditional policies – with demonstrated value –continue to be properly supported. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) remains a priority for Ireland.

From an agriculture perspective, I have been working closely with EU colleagues to build a consensus around the need to protect the CAP budget in the next MFF. Given that MFF matters are decided by unanimity, it is essential to build alliances around critical goals.

With this in mind, I have had a series of bilateral meetings with EU counterparts, to build support for a strong CAP budget post 2020. Furthermore, I recently agreed a Memorandum, with five European colleagues, seeking to maintain CAP funding for the 2021 - 27 period at current EU 27 levels. Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal, Greece and Finland have signed the Memorandum. Support has grown for this position and I understand that up to twenty Member States have expressed support for the proposal at this point.

Over the coming months there will be detailed negotiations at all levels across the EU as member states work together to shape the final outcome of both the CAP and the MFF proposals. I can assure the deputy that the need to ensure that the CAP is properly funded, and continues to support farm families and the rural economy, will remain at the very centre of our considerations.

I will continue to work to develop a broad consensus on the need for a strong and fit for purpose agriculture sector at the heart of the European Union.