Macra demands commitment from Commissioner Hansen on young farmer funding
Macra demanded a commitment on ring-fenced generational renewal funding from European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Christophe Hansen on day three of the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly.
Speaking during a sit-down meeting with Macra National President Josephine O’Neill and National Agricultural Affairs Committee Chair James McElearney, the Commissioner said he was committed to pushing for 10% ring-fenced funding for young farmers, which he said is a key part of current CAP negotiations.
Macra highlighted the importance of the proposed starter pack for young farmers, focusing on the inclusion of a mandatory Succession Scheme in the next CAP.
The Commissioner supported Macra’s continued call for the mandatory provision of installation aid to support young farmers in establishing their farm enterprises.
Stressing the importance of this support to ensure Ireland’s young farmers are competing on a level playing field, Macra national president Josephine O’Neill stated: “Ireland is currently the only EU member state without installation aid, and this puts our young farmers at a significant disadvantage compared to their EU counterparts.”
The Commissioner said he was in support of installation aid in prior CAP cycle negotiations, and will continue to push for it to be a mandatory element of the next CAP.
Macra outlined its proposed Active Farmer Definition to the Commissioner.
This definition would support genuine active farmers who take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the farm, and bear the inherent financial and production risks associated with running the farm business.
President O’Neill also reiterated the organisation’s call for subsidised farm relief services to be provided under the next CAP, in line with the Commission’s proposals.