Sligo Councillor sounds warnings over policies aimed at simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy

A Sligo Councillor is warning that measures aimed to simplify the Common Agricultural Policy will be disastrous for Irish farmers and in particular for farmers here in the North West. Cllr Michael Michael Clarke is warning that the measures will lead to a reduction in the number of those farming the land and ultimately food shortages with only the wealthy being able to afford meat products. The Ballymote Tubbercurry Councillor says the proposals also pave the way for the European commission to allocate funds previously earmarked for farmers, to be redirected to other projects such as community infrastructure upgrades. On the contentious issue of GAEC 2 payments the Independent Councillor says farmers will be no better off despite claims to the contrary from Europe.