Large turnout expected at rally against EU sugar reforms
20/11/2005 - 11:25:58Thousands of farmers are expected to take to the streets of Mallow in Co Cork today to voice their opposition to EU sugar reform proposals.
The Commission reform proposals include a two-step cut totalling 39% in the price for white sugar with compensation to farmers for 60% of the price cut through a decoupled payment.
African, Caribbean and Pacific countries, which traditionally export sugar to the EU, will benefit from an assistance programme worth €40m under these proposals.
The IFA say these new proposals would wipe out the livelihoods of beet growers in Ireland.
The Commission hopes for a political agreement on the proposals at the Agriculture Council in the next week.
