02/05/2014

Future Of Rural Ireland Depends On A Strong Network Of Family Farms - Carthy

Speaking in Leitrim,Sinn Féin's Matt Carthy said that the future of rural Ireland depends on a strong network of family farms.

The Midlands Northwest candidate will later visit a farmers' mart in Drumshambo.

Councillor Carthy said: "We often refer to agriculture and rural Ireland as being the backbone of our country and in these times of austerity policies by Europe, by Fine Gael and Labour and the British Tories, this has never been truer.

"The future of rural Ireland depends on a strong network of family farms. The development of a thriving agriculture sector needs farmers. Farmers who are confident and supported in their work both by central government and by Europe.

"Proposed CAP changes have repercussions for Irish farmers and Sinn Féin will try to ensure that those in the most disadvantaged areas are not only protected but encouraged and incentivised to continue farming.

"Historically CAP has favoured a small minority of recipients who received the lion's share of the Single Farm Payment without having any greater productivity than those on lower payments. Sinn Féin supports the re-establishment of the principles of CAP: food security and fair prices.

"We need a better deal for all of rural Ireland. It is vital therefore that implementation of the new CAP regime includes a significant redistribution of funds towards the majority of farmers, many of whom are struggling to maintain a viable income."

(CD)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

14 April 2014
'Energising Ireland’s Rural Economy' Report Published
The Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA) report, "Energising Ireland’s Rural Economy", has been launched by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny.
24 January 2014
Special Consideration Urged For Stud Farms
Stud farms and racehorse training facilities should be designated as 'noise sensitive properties' and given special consideration when planning application for wind farm developments are being considered.
28 February 2024
Gaming Business Ideas To Start In Ireland
Are you passionate about gaming and considering turning your hobby into a profitable business in Ireland? You're in luck! The gaming industry is booming, and many opportunities are waiting for you. Here are ten gaming business ideas that could be your ticket to success in this exciting field. 1.
02 March 2012
Adams Calls For Treaty Rejection
Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams is in Castlebar this morning to launch a process of consultation with rural Ireland as part of a fight-back against the erosion of public services. Teachta Adams said: "Our goal is to produce a plan for the regeneration and growth of rural communities.
21 July 2011
Europe's CAP Reform Gets Northern Focus
The Northern Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle O'Neill has met the EU Commission to discuss the ongoing Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform. The Stormont Executive Minister was in Brussels meeting Georg Haeusler, Head of Cabinet of the EU Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner.