A much-anticipated delay to the next CAP of two years has been confirmed by the European Commission.

The new CAP had been due to come into effect on 1 January 2021. However, it will not be ready in time and will instead take effect on farms on 1 January 2023.

The extra two years will allow time for the EU to complete the reforms and for member states to design their CAP strategic plans.

The Commission confirmed the delay to the IFA this week. The European Parliament and Council had already agreed on a two-year delay but the Commission had resisted the idea.

The transition regulations are due to be agreed by all three parties in Brussels this month.

IFA President Tim Cullinan said it was “vital that all farm schemes were continued for the full two-year transition period”.