The introduction of the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) looks set to be delayed for up to two years, with the EU’s budget for the next seven years the major sticking point.

The next CAP was due to start in 2021, but the European Commission has proposed a year-long transitional period. However, MEPs are sceptical that the necessary work can be completed within a year, with a number voicing the opinion that the transition period should be two years.

During a discussion on the proposals in the European Parliament on Wednesday, Finnish MEP Elsi Katainen, who is overseeing the agriculture committee’s input, said a one-year transition would only be possible if there was a provisional agreement on the CAP budget in June 2020.

She said this would allow member states 12 months to design their CAP strategic plan, a key part of the next policy, and give the Commission six months to approve the plans.

Budget

However, the EU is locked in budget negotiations. The Commission has proposed a 5% cut to the CAP budget, which for Irish farmers would translate to €100m less per year.

The parliament and MEPs have rejected the proposal saying the budget must be maintained at a minimum. However, the 5% cut is included in the transition regulations.

Katainen said: “The Commission proposal of continuing with old rules and new money is welcome, but it doesn’t mean we cannot improve the Commission’s proposal.

“Furthermore, it cannot be old rules, less money.

“We need to reflect the current line of the European Parliament and defend the MFF [multi-annual financial framework] budget. We cannot accept any reduction of the funding of agriculture, as the farmer’s income is already lower than average.”

Proposal

In response, a representative for the European Commission said the 5% cut had been included, as it was the only reference point it had when designing the transitional rules.

The representative said once the EU’s overall budget was agreed the proposal could be adapted.

On the prospect of delaying the next CAP for two years, he said it would be better to commit to a one-year delay and extend it if necessary.

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