The overall Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) budget post-2020 must contribute to climate action, the new CAP post-2020 consultative committee heard at its first meeting on Wednesday. In the European Commission’s proposal at least 40% of the overall CAP budget post-2020 must contribute to climate action.

I see the Committee having an important role as we consider how we will deal with the challenges ahead

Chairing the meeting, Minister Creed outlined Ireland’s support for the increased environmental ambition and highlighted the need for adequate budgetary provision to ensure CAP objectives can be achieved.

“I see the Committee having an important role as we consider how we will deal with the challenges ahead and lead the development of one of the most efficient and sustainable agri-food sectors in the world,” Minister Creed said.

First CAP consultative committee meeting.

The new committee forms part of Ireland’s move towards a new CAP. Under the Commission’s proposals, each member state’s CAP Strategic Plan for the period post-2020 must include information on the outcome of the consultation with stakeholders as well as how that consultation was conducted.

“In addition to setting up the CAP Consultative Committee, my Department will undertake further public consultation at a later stage in the CAP reform process, in order to ensure that the development of Ireland’s Strategic Plan helps to address the many challenges facing the agri-food sector,” Minister Creed said.