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A delay to the next CAP has opened the window for further flattening of direct payments in 2020.
Under temporary rules for next year, there is a provision for countries to “continue the internal convergence process after 2019”.
The previous reforms set out that all farmers must reach at least 60% of the average entitlement value of €265/ha.
The draft proposals for the farm policy call for entitlements to reach at least 75% of the national average.
Transitional regulations
However, this process could begin next year if the Department of Agriculture chooses to avail of the provision in the transitional regulations.
The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) president Colm O’Donnell said his organisation was adamant that convergence should continue next year.
SHARING OPTIONS: