Minister Heydon and Minister of State Dooley attend AGRIFISH Council
- Published on: 16 November 2025
- Last updated on: 21 November 2025
Speaking in advance of the November AGRIFISH Council being held in Brussels tomorrow (Monday, 17 November) Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, noted that the Council will again debate the post-2027 CAP proposal, this time with a focus on food security and the targeting of support.
Minister Heydon said:
“The future of the CAP is vital in safeguarding the continued viability of our farmers and rural communities. It must remain a distinct, fully funded policy with clear governance, capable of sustaining farm incomes, food security, and rural resilience.”
The agenda for the meeting also includes an exchange of views on trade-related agricultural issues.
Minister Heydon said:
“I look forward to discussing trade-related issues. I will reiterate Ireland’s unwavering support for Ukraine, and commitment to deeper economic relationship between the EU and Ukraine. I will also re-state Ireland’s well-known concerns regarding the Mercosur trade agreement.
“In addition, we must not overlook the challenges around fertiliser costs associated with the implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). It is important to provide certainty for industry about the levies which will apply very soon, and I will be raising this issue.”
The Council Agenda also includes an exchange of views in relation to Fishing Opportunities for 2026.
Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley, said:
“I welcome this opportunity to highlight Ireland’s concerns and priorities in relation to the ongoing fishing opportunity negotiations. At last month’s Council, I highlighted the urgent need to take steps to protect our valuable Mackerel stock – and I will be reiterating that call now.
“I will also be joining other Member States in calling for simplification of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to help progress key objectives including supporting generational renewal and energy transition.
“Furthermore, I joined a call by Member States for a revision of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The CFP has provided the framework for driving positive changes in the management of our fisheries over the last decade. However, our Fisheries world has changed fundamentally since 2013, and the CFP must be updated to reflect this new reality.”