Martin Kenny TD gives cautious welcome to Omnibus Regulation

SINN Fein Spokesperson on Agriculture, Food and Marine Martin Kenny has given a cautious welcome to the Omnibus Regulation that passed through the EU parliament earlier this week which aims to simplify the CAP process.

Deputy Kenny said;

“Earlier this week the EU parliament passed the Omnibus Regulation which amends the financial regulation that governs the EU budget including the CAP budget. The purpose of this is to simplify the CAP process from 2018 on.

“Any simplification of the CAP process is welcome news for farmers, as the amount of red tape that farmers are forced to go through has increased dramatically over the years.

“Young farmers are also to benefit with member states given the flexibility to increase young farmers’ payments from 25% to 50% of the basic payment entitlement.

“However one of the areas I’m concerned about is the change to the definition of an active farmer and allowing member states to discontinue applying the active farmer rule.

“Irish farmers produce world class produce and have complied with regulation after regulation from both the EU and the Irish government. There can be no dilution of the definition of an active farmer and payments under CAP should go those engaged in farming and no other industries.

“I intend to raise this matter with Minister Creed and call on him to ensure Irish farmers are protected.”