Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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209. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the outcome of discussions at the recent General Affairs Council with reference to the EU multi-annual budget (2028-2034); and the need to protect funding for the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65065/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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On Monday 17 November, the Minister for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne T.D represented Ireland at the General Affairs Council. At this meeting, EU Member States debated on core elements of the Commission’s proposal for Heading One (ADD) of the 2028 – 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, and in particular on the National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPP).

In his intervention, Minister Byrne underlined the need for the NRPP to provide strong and robust governance, proportionality, and the clear and active role for Member States in decision making.

The Minister advocated in particular on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which Ireland views as essential in securing farm incomes, food security, and rural resilience. Ireland, alongside other Member States, called for a robust and ring-fenced CAP and Common Fisheries Policy, with adequate funding.

This will provide a foundation for European food security, competitiveness, economic and social sustainability of Europe’s farming and food sectors, and contribute to our climate and environmental ambitions.

The critical role of the PEACE PLUS programme for peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland was also raised by the Minister during the GAC debate.

As discussions progress, the Government will continue to play an active role in negotiations in order to ensure our interests and priorities are protected in the final agreement. In particular, the Government views it fundamental that legislation finally agreed reflects Ireland’s concerns and provides certainty and stability for farmers, fishers and rural communities.