Farmers from across Ireland are gathering in Dublin today to protest against proposed cuts to agricultural funding in the next European Union budget.
The rally, organised by the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA), is taking place at the Clayton Hotel on Cardiff Lane, close to the Convention Centre, where European leaders are meeting for a second day of discussions.
The demonstration forms part of the IFA's 'No CAP Cuts' campaign, which is calling on EU leaders to protect funding for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the next seven-year budget covering 2028 to 2034.
The association is raising concerns over a proposed €2.4 billion reduction in agricultural funding, warning that cuts could have serious implications for farmers, food production and rural communities.
IFA President Francie Gorman says the CAP budget has been reduced by 24%, despite the overall EU budget increasing by 68%.
He is calling for at least €500 billion to be allocated to the Common Agricultural Policy over the seven-year period to ensure farmers have the support needed to maintain food production and meet future challenges.
The campaign has been visible across the country this week, with IFA county executives displaying large 'NO CAP CUTS' messages on farmland.
One of the most striking displays features the words 'NO CAP CUT' ploughed into a 40-acre field beside Dublin Airport.
The Dublin rally is also bringing together representatives from farming organisations across Europe, highlighting concerns about the future of agricultural funding at EU level.
The IFA is urging European leaders to recognise the importance of a properly funded CAP, arguing that agricultural support is essential to food security, farm viability and the sustainability of rural communities.
The demonstration comes as discussions continue on the EU's next long-term budget, with decisions on funding for the period between 2028 and 2034 expected to have a significant impact on the future of Irish and European agriculture.
