An Irish Member of the European Parliament (MEP) has called for an increase in funding to address the rising threat of animal diseases, urging that it be included in the 2026 EU budget. Maria Walsh, a Fine Gael MEP for the Midlands-North-West, emphasized the financial strain that such outbreaks place on farmers and their livelihoods.
As a member of the European Parliament’s Agriculture Committee, Walsh submitted amendments this week advocating for more ambitious funding for small farmers and rural communities, which she described as the foundation of Irish agriculture. She stressed the importance of ensuring that farmers are not left vulnerable to the economic impacts of animal disease outbreaks.
In a statement, Walsh highlighted the necessity of securing a budget that safeguards farm incomes and addresses both current and future challenges. “We need a budget that secures farm incomes and protects against present and future threats,” she said. “Small farmers, farm families, and rural communities are the backbone of Irish agriculture, and it is crucial that they are supported when crises like animal disease outbreaks occur.”
Walsh further underscored the significant toll that animal disease outbreaks have on farmers, not only financially but also emotionally. “The impact of these outbreaks is profound, and it is essential that we have the necessary resources to respond swiftly. Prevention is better than cure, and this is key to protecting the future of farming in Ireland and across Europe,” she said.
Additionally, the MEP called for the European Commission to explore funding mechanisms outside the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to address the broad range of challenges facing the agricultural sector. While CAP funding remains crucial for ensuring income stability, Walsh stressed that it cannot be the sole financial support mechanism.
“CAP funding is vital, but it cannot be the only source of financial support,” Walsh said. “The EU must ensure that emergency funds are readily available to address crises like animal diseases, without depleting the essential resources that farmers depend on through CAP. This will give farmers the peace of mind that their income remains secure during volatile times.”
Walsh’s calls for increased EU funding reflect the growing concern over the vulnerability of the agricultural sector, particularly in light of the mounting challenges posed by animal diseases.
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