Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has called on the Minister for Agriculture to engage with his EU counterparts to ensure robust and sustained funding for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the next EU budget, stressing that the future of family farming and rural communities in Cavan-Monaghan and beyond depends on a well-funded CAP.

Deputy Smith made these remarks following a Parliamentary Question he raised in the Dáil, where he asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for a detailed update on ongoing engagement with the European Union regarding negotiations for the next CAP funding period. 

In response, the Minister confirmed he is actively engaged with EU institutions and fellow Agriculture Ministers to influence the next CAP. He highlighted the importance of a well-funded CAP for farm incomes, food security, and rural development, and noted that Ireland will play a key role in upcoming negotiations, particularly during its EU Presidency in 2026.

Welcoming the Minister’s actions Deputy Smith went on to state, “For over fifty years, CAP has been central to Irish farming. It has helped farmers make a living, kept food on our tables, and supported rural life across the country. As the EU prepares its next budget, we need to make sure that support is not only protected but strengthened to meet the challenges farmers face now and into the future.

Ireland’s current CAP Strategic Plan (2023–2027) is backed by €9.8 billion in EU and national funding for income supports, agri-environmental schemes, and rural development. Deputy Smith said the next phase of CAP must go further.

“Farmers are dealing with rising costs, climate demands and the challenge of bringing in the next generation. A strong CAP is vital, not just for producing food but for supporting climate action, protecting biodiversity and keeping rural communities alive. That means real investment,” Deputy Smith said.

Concluding Deputy Smith stated, “Farmers need certainty for the future. Without proper CAP funding we risk damaging the entire agri-food sector and hollowing out rural Ireland.  Food security must also be an important consideration for all of the European Union.”