Dublin (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Sinn Féin MEP Kathleen Funchion has stated that Sinn Féin will persist in standing up for Irish farmers in the EU Parliament, in the Dáil and every local council.
What Challenges Are Irish Family Farmers Facing Today?
Funchion was talking at the annual Iverk Agricultural Show in Piltown, South Kilkenny. MEP Funchion stated: “The Irish farming and fishing communities have been poorly let down by successive Irish management and by the European Union. Irish farmers require Sinn Féin and our elected representatives to stand up for them and question every decision-making body that we can – in Brussels and the Dáil.
She contended that someone in farmers’ corners is never more critical than now. “During my recent election campaign, I heard from more diminutive, family farmers across Ireland and South who have had to compete with rising costs, the unreliability of schemes, modifications to CAP which have dwindled smaller farmers’ payments, and price volatility leading many to doubt the viability of their family farm.”
“Today, I got the chance to talk directly, again with those most affected by the legislation that emanates from Europe. People talked to me about their love of farming, their dedication to the communities they live in and crucially their inherent understanding of the land they are custodians of.
How Does Sinn Féin Plan to Address Farmers’ Concerns in Brussels?
“Sinn Fein has laboured hard to develop solutions with the farming community because farmers have the solutions to some of these issues. They are the most invested in ensuring the sector stays viable and feeds their families with a future on the land. I plan to continue this work in the European Parliament.
She expressed that Sinn Féin has been critical of a government that has stood back. “As we recently witnessed with Uisce Éireann’s recent announcement of substantial increases in water and wastewater charges from anywhere between €250 to €5,000 annually, associated with the cynical move to appoint a generational renewal commission, despite Sinn Féin bringing forward legislation earlier this year calling for a thorough review and plan for the future of farming in this country. This government is running out of ideas and with a general election dominating is clutching for ideas – Sinn Féin have the answers.
“We require a reset in Brussels and in the Irish government that will stand up for, support and show pride in this wonderfully diverse and crucial sector.”
