The introduction of a suckler cow payment in the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is being campaigned for by MEP Seán Kelly.

The Fine Gael MEP for Ireland south has set his stall against his party compatriot Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed, who has firmly stood against the introduction of a suckler cow payment, stating that it could lead to farmers being rewarded for keeping unproductive “stripper cows”.

Armed with a payment

Although Kelly does not specify how much should be included in the payment, he has said farmers should be armed with an additional suckler payment and that a potential 5% CAP cut should be shelved.

A specific suckler cow payment is a major priority for me

“The introduction of a specific suckler cow payment is a major priority for me, particularly if we are to sufficiently support our beef farmers against the negative impacts of Brexit and increased global price competition,” Kelly said.

“It is imperative that we secure a fair and adequate post-2020 budget for our farmers, with at least a continuation of the current budget level. This is increasingly important as costs and requirements on farmers are multiplying."

“Simplification for farmers is a key requirement going forward and I intend to ensure this is addressed for the post-2020 CAP reform.”

The Irish Farmers Journal ran a campaign earlier this year to introduce a suckler cow payment in budget 2019, which will be unveiled tomorrow.

Some 44,000 people signed the petition to launch a €200/cow payment, but it is not yet known whether one will be included in the budget.

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