Drop Down Menu
  Search...
 
  Business Directory Ad  

 

1 in 3 farmers inspected were landed with penalties in 2016 29.09.17

FIANNA Fáil Agriculture Spokesperson Charlie McConologue has called on Minister Creed to carry out an immediate review of the current inspections regime.
New figures releases to Deputy McConalogue reveal that 33% of farmers inspected for cross compliance last year were hit with penalties. This is an increase of over 40% compared to 2010 figures.
To view 2010 & 2016 figures click here .
There has also been a large fall-off in the number of farmers who were clear of any cross compliance breaches. In 2010, 71% of farmers were clear compared with just 39% in 2016.
Deputy McConalogue commented, “It is becoming increasingly clear that the rise in the number and complexity of CAP schemes, more and more penalties are being applied to farmers.
“Farmers are doing everything within their power to comply with increasingly complex and bureaucratic requirements to draw down payments, and many now view the inspections regime as unfair, and claim that it is resulting in disproportionate penalties.
Deputy Charlie McConalogue.
“I don’t believe that penalties should be placed on farmers retrospectively unless intentional fraud is suspected. Where genuine errors occur or where simple non-compliance issues arise, farmers should be given a warning and an opportunity to address the error without the threat of penalties.
“A long overdue review of the Agriculture Appeals Office has been announced by the Government. It is vital that these latest statistics are discussed with all farmer stakeholders with a view to ensure there is a fair inspection and appeals system in place”.
Add to Favorites :: Return to > Top Stories    > News    > Home