The debate on agriculture kicked off Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis in the City West hotel in Dublin. In front of a very small group of no more than 50 people, Ó Cuív outlined a plan focussed primarily on government spending and a redrawing of the Rural Development Programme (RDP).

Ó Cuív outlined that the RDP was €300m light and is tailored away from west of Ireland farmers.

Top of Ó Cuív’s plan for the agriculture sector is a €200/cow payment for the suckler sector. This would be likely to replace or supplement the current Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP). With the BDGP currently operating, it is difficult to see how the payment could be changed.

As well as an increase payment for the suckler payment, Ó Cuív also said that he wants to restore Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) payments to 2008 levels. In 2008, the ANC payments were called the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme (DAS). Ó Cuív was in government with Fianna Fáil in 2009 when cuts were imposed on DAS.

Do you believe O'Cúiv's promises?

Click here if you can't see the poll

As well as on suckler payments and the ANC, former ICMSA president and candidate for Tipperary Jack Cahill called for more support for the dairy sector. Cahill expressed concern that milk price will be in the region of 20c/litre and 21c/litre in the spring which will leave farmers exposed.

Competition

There were concerns raised from the floor regarding the proposed sale of 50% of Slaney Foods to ABP. Delegates also called on the government to increase live exports to Britain.