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Agriland

Kelly: Package ‘puts trust back in the hands of farmers'

Fine Gael MEP, Sean Kelly has welcomed the European Commission's proposals to simplify the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The Ireland South MEP said the proposal is a positive development, and a direct response to the growing frustration among farmers who have 'long struggled with red tape and overly frigid rules'. MEP Kelly also described the announcement as a 'good day for Irish agriculture' and highlighted several key elements in the package. He said: 'Simplification, flexibility, less bureaucracy, these are exactly the changes our farmers have been calling for. 'This is not just a minor adjustment, it's a shift in tone that puts trust back in the hands of farmers,' he added. The MEP has welcomed the increased flat-rate payment for small farmers and greater discretion of member states. 'Raising the flat-rate payment limit to €2,500 is practical and fair. It will ease the burden on small family farms and save time and money. That's common sense policy,' Kelly explained. MEP Kelly Kelly was particularly encouraged by the approach taken on Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) 2, which addresses wetland and peatland management. He said: 'This was a major concern voiced by farmers I've met across Ireland in recent weeks. The flexibility to reward environmental stewardship rather than penalise it is a breakthrough. 'Farmers working on peatlands and wetlands will now be supported, not punished, for their efforts.' 'I believe this progress stems in no small part from the influence of the EPP Group in the parliament. With 188 members, we've ensured that the voice of farmers is heard clearly in Brussels,' he added. The MEP believes that the EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Christophe Hansen, 'understands agriculture' and has shown he is willing to act. 'This package is the beginning of restoring agriculture to its rightful place at the top of the European agenda,' Kelly said. 'I sincerely hope all Irish MEPs will come together now to support these proposals as they move through parliament.' 'Agriculture is Ireland's primary industry – and it deserves a common effort to ensure farmers have the tools they need to thrive,' he added.