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Convergence of direct payments should continue during the likely two-year CAP transition period, Fianna Fáil spokesperson on agriculture Charlie McConalogue has said.
The process of moving all payments towards the average national entitlement value began after the last CAP reforms. All payments are now at least 60% of the average value.
In the next CAP, it is proposed payments reach 75% of the average value by 2026. However, CAP 2021 to 2027 looks set to be delayed by at least one if not two years. This will delay payment flattening unless member states avail of an option to continue it during the transition period.
Fianna Fáil has committed, if in government, to continuing convergence during the transition period, according to McConalogue.
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McConalogue said: “There is no reasonable basis why Minister Creed has decided to stop the convergence process during the transition period in advance of the next seven-year CAP programme being agreed.
“I do not agree with Minister Creed in halting the convergence process given that it is now accepted at EU level that a minimum convergence of 75% is required by 2026. Progress towards this minimum threshold should continue during the transition years and it is entirely logical that this should happen.”
Entitlements
McConologue also believes that the reduction of high-value entitlements should continue. The current maximum entitlement value is €700/ha. The next CAP has proposed a maximum of €500/ha.
“Looking to the future, a decision will be required alongside agreement of the final budget for the next CAP programme on the final level of convergence to be achieved, but it is not acceptable for the Government to now bring a halt to the process towards the accepted minimum during the transition period.”
SHARING OPTIONS: