In relation to the proposed single farm payment top-up for young farmers under CAP 2014-2020, can the Commission outline what degree of flexibility will be given to Member States in its implementation?

At present, Ireland has 6.9 % of farmers under 35 years of age, but for the Commission’s aims and objectives for young farmers under this top-up to be met, the full allocation of 2 % must be made available to young farmers. At present, Ireland does not have enough young farmers listed for this top-up to make any measurable impact.

In this regard, does the Commission anticipate giving flexibility to Member States to set the criteria for this measure in accordance with the profile and needs of young farmers in their respective countries?