The European Commission’s proposals for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2027 are currently at an early stage of negotiation at EU level. The legislative framework governing the future CAP has therefore not yet been agreed.
As with the current CAP Strategic Plan, my Department will engage in detailed consultations with stakeholders on the arrangements that will pertain post-2027, including in respect of individual CAP interventions. It is not possible at this point to comment on specific design options. These matters will depend on the final shape of the EU Regulations, as well as that stakeholder engagement.
My consistent position in the negotiations is that the future CAP must be adequately funded, workable in practice, and capable of supporting viable farm incomes, food production and environmental commitments, with a key focus on simplification for farmers.