Mullooly calls for clear definition of 'fair income' for farmers

Clarity is needed when the EU is discussing a "fair income" for farmers.

That's according to MEP Ciaran Mullooly, who raised a number of questions at this week's meeting of the EU's Agricultural Committee in Brussels about the recommendations outlined in the draft of a report to be sent to the European Commission ahead of its 2026 agricultural budget. The discussion focused on ensuring adequate funding for farmers and promoting the sustainability of the EU’s agricultural production system.

In his address, MEP Mullooly emphasised the need for clarity when discussing a "fair income" for farmers in this draft report to be submitted to the Commission, urging policymakers to define this concept in practical terms.

"We need to be clear on what a fair budget means," he stated. "If we don’t know what a fair income is, how can we aim to achieve it for family farms? Is it the national average? Is it the EU industrial wage? Is it a rate per hour worked by the farmer? Does it take into consideration the appalling conditions our farmers sometimes work in?"

He stressed that these questions must be addressed to ensure the future viability of the EU agricultural production system.

"I believe we need to set out a plan to ensure the future viability of the EU agricultural production system is worked out properly."

The Midlands-North-West MEP also voiced strong support for measures aimed at promoting generational renewal in the agricultural sector, highlighting that fair income levels are essential to achieving this goal.

"There is one certain and sure way to achieve this. This is to have an income that justifies the commitment, the dedication and the expertise that is required to meet the ever-increasing cost of food production."