The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is set to change property proportions for farmers across the country in 2023. Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan, which is currently with the EU Commission for approval, will see 100% of farmers receiving CAP farm payments allocate at least 4% of land on farms for non-productive purposes.
This means that the allocated land will be ecologically focused areas. Previously this requirement only applied to 4% of Irish farmers.
It’s understood that the EU had asked Ireland to restore, maintain and improve habitats and landscapes in order to prevent a decline in biodiversity. The move places an economic value on biodiversity for the first time in the country.
As 4% is the baseline requirement, the average economic value regarding the allocation is averaging €158.68 per entitlement.
The rules for the 4% will have the objective to develop and maintain habitats on all farmlands for biodiversity. Along with economic value to farmers, 4% non-productive farmland will further contribute positively to the protection and management of carbon stores, and to a reduction in pesticide use.
BirdWatch Ireland, head of Advocacy, Oonagh Duggan, has welcomed the news, saying that it would remove the threat of red-lining of 30% of a parcel containing scrub and other habitats. However, she adds that it must be accompanied by an effective communications campaign to encourage farmers to retain these important habitats.
LSL News.