That this Council contact
our MEPs to support small famers with any CAP reforms.
The common agricultural policy was
established to secure Europe's food supply and to stabilise prices
to the benefit of both producers and consumers. It has expanded its remit
greatly since then and is valued at 1.2 billion each year to Ireland.
Under the present
debate and negotiations about CAP reform the economic well being of the family farm
structure is a priority. Rural communities are struggling to survive with the
closure of schools, post offices, garda stations and so much more.
At a recent meeting l attended, Eamon O
Cuiv, argued for the protection
of Pillar II payments, , and new maximum and
minimum amounts payable per hectare.
Why do l highlight such issues in a
urban town council setting?
With the release of
the Killarney urban habitats and biodiversity survey we understand its value.
We understand the intertwined value of tourism and our natural heritage.
For County Kerry,
Killarney and its tourist product, the protection of our environment and
developing economic diversity in rural areas is the way forward. Many small
farmers work part time in the various tourism industries. One complements the
other, the protector of our environment as a farmer combined with service
provider as an employee of a hotel.
Cap reform needs to have a core value
which will sustain these communities in the future and fully support and
encourage alternative farm enterprises.
tomkillarney@yahoo.ie
087 2942260
