EPP Appoints Nina Carberry as Chief Negotiator for CAP Talks

UPDATE: In a significant move just announced, Nina Carberry has been appointed as the Chief Negotiator for the European People’s Party (EPP) in negotiations concerning the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This urgent development, confirmed on January 8, 2026, places Carberry at the forefront of shaping agricultural funding for the EU.

Carberry, an MEP representing the Midlands North West, will lead discussions within the Budget Committee to draft the Parliament’s budget position for the next CAP, which is set to be the largest component of the nearly €2 trillion EU fund. She emphasized her commitment to protecting the €136 million in CAP funds recently distributed in Donegal during 2025, stating this will be her top priority.

In her new role, Carberry aims to secure an increased CAP budget focused on reducing bureaucratic hurdles. She has proposed €300 billion in direct payments and basic income support, along with a new minimum target of 10% for rural development. However, Carberry pointed out that this budget still represents a smaller share of the EU budget than that allocated in the current CAP period.

The MEP highlighted the critical need to keep CAP funding distinct from a single EU fund, warning, “Rolling CAP into a single fund carries serious risks. CAP must remain clearly ring-fenced. Its common nature is essential – it cannot become 27 different national policies.” This statement underscores her commitment to maintaining the integrity of agricultural funding across Europe.

Carberry has also called for better alignment of CAP investment with increased funding for research and innovation, which is set to rise to €175 billion for the next seven-year period. She believes that ensuring generational renewal within the agricultural sector must be a central focus in all discussions surrounding the new CAP.

As negotiations progress, Carberry will engage with farmers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to prepare amendments to the Parliament’s budget report. Her proactive approach aims to ensure that the voices of those affected by CAP policies are heard loud and clear.

The implications of her appointment are vast, as the CAP affects millions of lives across Europe, making this a crucial moment for agricultural policy. Carberry’s determination to advocate for increased funding and support for rural development reflects her commitment to her constituents and the broader European community.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Carberry and the EPP to see how they shape the future of agricultural policy in Europe. Stay tuned for updates on this pressing issue.