Ireland's negotiating position on the Dr Franz Fischler CAP reform package is being hindered by our perceived support for the US build-up of troops for a possible war in Iraq.
This emerged last week in Brussels where Irish diplomats are coming under pressure from other EU countries on the issue.
Ireland is opposing the Fischler reforms, and is relying heavily on French support in making the case that they cut too deeply.France has been leading the opposition to the reforms. Spain, which supports the US position on Iraq, is also opposed to the reform package and the French have indicated to them that at a time when loyalties are being tested in all areas, it cannot be in both camps at the same time. "In a more subtle way, the same message is being directed at Ireland," said a well-placed Irish source in Brussels.