The upcoming Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) budget must place a renewed focus on supporting sustainable farming systems, with a particular emphasis on Ireland’s sheep and cattle sectors, the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) has said.

INHFA vice-president Micheal McDonnell highlighted the critical financial pressures faced by these sectors, with average family farm incomes below €15,000.

This figure, he said, does not include an additional 50,000 farms with a standard output of less than €8,000, according to National Farm Survey data.

“These are the farmers delivering for biodiversity, nature, and our rural communities. They manage our landscapes, protect habitats, and produce high-quality food under some of the most stringent environmental and animal welfare regulations in Europe, McDonnell said.

Grazing systems

He added that this cohort of over 70,000 farmers often operate extensive grazing systems, manage commonages, follow organic practices, and farm on designated lands under EU conservation directives.

"Despite their contributions to sustainable land use and food production, they remain at risk of being overlooked in CAP reform discussions,” he added.

He argued that it is vital that these farmers are not forgotten as they are central to Ireland’s sustainable food production, climate and environmental ambitions, and their continued viability must be secured through meaningful CAP support.

The INHFA leader added that the next CAP must ensure these farmers are properly recognised and resourced, not only for their food production, but also for the environmental and social goods they provide every day.

"A fair and inclusive CAP budget is essential to sustain Ireland’s farming future, rural economy, and environmental commitments," he said.