Consumer groups have given the proposed CAP reforms a luke-warm reception, saying they represent a missed opportunity to deliver a fair deal for consumers.
Mr Jim Murray, director of the European Consumers' Organisation (BEUC), said the proposals were unlikely to lead to a drop in food prices, which have been inflated by CAP payments and export subsidies.
He said CAP cost the average family of four about €20-€25 a week in terms of higher food prices and taxation. "Ideally, we would like to have seen an end to export subsidies, not just for the sake of European consumers but for Third World and other producers for whom these subsidies are causing appalling damage. Europe is dumping food in these countries, and we - the consumers - are paying for it."
Mr Murray, a native of Co Wicklow who works for the Brussels-based consumers' umbrella group, said he would like to have seen the proposals going further in terms of shifting economic support "away from production" to quality and eco-friendliness.
"Environmental standards have not been up to scratch, and the 'polluter pays' principle has not been properly applied to the farming sector. This may have some effect in deterring farmers from polluting, and that should be welcomed."
However, he said, "there is also a danger farmers will see these new forms of support as compensation for the old ones, and not something that requires a definite and positive response. What we don't want is for farmers to be subsidised not to pollute the environment."
He said the BEUC, which has 34 affiliated associations, including the Consumers' Association of Ireland (CAI), also welcomed the proposal to invest more money in rural development.
Mr Dermott Jewell, chief executive of the CAI, welcomed certain aspects of the proposals, including those which could lead to environmental or food safety improvements.
However, he said, "in general there's a feeling of disappointment. A lot of people had great expectations about this. A lot of consumers thought this was a big opportunity for change but the change hasn't come. And unfortunately it will take some time before the issue comes up for review again." On RTÉ Radio's Morning Ireland yesterday, Trinity College Dublin agricultural economist Mr Alan Matthews said the proposals might lead to a reduction in beef supplies and, therefore, higher prices for farmers and consumers.
Mr Jewell expressed concern at such a possible knock-on effect, and said reports showed consumers were already paying too much for certain foods.
Mr Matthews said that while the proposals would have some effect on market price it should not be very significant.
