Open farmer meeting set for Macroom

THE IFA is holding a number of open farmer meetings around the country to update farmers on the state of play with the CAP negotiations. The first of these meetings for Cork will take place on Thursday, January 17, in the Castle Hotel, Macroom, and the following week in Corrin Mart, Fermoy, on Wednesday January 23, both at 8pm. IFA President Joe Healy and senior officers will be in attendance at these meetings.

The purpose of these meetings is to update farmers on the IFA’s campaign to protect direct payments and inform farmers of the key dates they need to be aware of in 2019.

IFA President Joe Healy said, “The medium-term outlook for agriculture is very uncertain, not least as a result of policy and trade issues stemming from Brexit.

“2019 is a critical year, given the decisions that will be made on CAP post-2020. The outcome of the CAP process will decide the budget for Ireland and the level of support for Irish farmers for the next seven years. Direct payments are critical for farmers’ incomes, and we expect the Government to fight for an increase in the CAP Budget.”

Farmers will also be updated on what the recent ANC review means and how to appeal if they were excluded. The meetings are open to all.