The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have called on the architects of the upcoming CAP programme to ensure the family farm model is protected whilst delivering fair and achievable outcomes for its farmers.
Speaking on this INHFA president Vincent Roddy detailed the importance of CAP support, especially for suckler, beef and sheep farmers where income volatility and low margins has seen a continued decline in livestock numbers and critically the number of farmers.
As EU institutions work on finalising a budget and overall framework for the new CAP programme which will commence in 2028 it is Roddy stressed “vital there is a ring-fenced CAP budget that recognises the critical role of our farmers in terms of food production, landscape management and supporting our rural communities.” Roddy also stated that “any new CAP programme must promote sustainable Agricultural practices that are carried out on our extensive grazing model that benefits both production and the environment.” He also added that the new CAP programme needs to ensure farming is more attractive for the next generation.
The budget must, he continued “recognise the increased demands that have been made on farmers and also, restrictions that continue to reduce output and income.” On this basis it is, he added, “vital that the overall CAP budget is increased.”
In relation to the new CAP programme the INHFA President stressed the need “to continue with the convergence of payments while also increasing payments on the first 30ha through a more ambitious CRISS model.” This he maintained “will help protect the smaller holdings dominated by suckler and sheep farmers and the wider rural communities that are so dependent on these sectors.”
With regard to proposals around conditionality the INHFA leader was adamant that “the terms and conditions need to recognise what is achievable and must include a proper yellow card system that gives farmers a chance to address any breach of the conditions.”
In concluding Roddy outlined the ongoing concern expressed by many, both in Ireland and in Brussels around farmer’s mental health. While this concern is laudable we must he stated “recognise that a major factor in relation to mental health, concerns financial wellbeing. So for farmers any risk to their CAP payments is a major concern, which is why I am asking those drafting the new CAP programme to ensure this is foremost in their thinking.