European Parliament approves key report on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy - Cope

The Lyon report on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy after 2013 was adopted today in Strasbourg

Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP stated today that "the adoption of the European Parliament report on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy is a significant milestone for Irish agriculture. We are now entering into a crucial period for Irish farmers, their families, rural communities and the Irish food sector."

"The negotiations between the European Commission, the European Parliament and the EU Governments are due to be finalised in 2011. The report adopted today establishes the position of the European Parliament in the context of these important negotiations."

"I am pleased that the report recognises that any reduction in direct payments to farmers would have devastating consequences. This year alone some EUR 1.3 billion will be paid to Irish farmers under the Single Farm Payment Scheme."

"Other positive recommendations contained in the report include a greater focus on the creation of green jobs in our rural communities, better recognition for the high quality standards in which Irish and European farmers produce food within the context of trade talks with non-EU countries and a reformed CAP with less red tape and paperwork for farmers."

The author of the report, George Lyon visited Ireland earlier this year at the invitation of Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP, Liam Aylward MEP, Brian Crowley MEP and Marian Harkin MEP to meet with the Minister for Agriculture and key farming stakeholders.

ENDS