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The Scotland-wide series of public meetings about the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have kicked off again this week.

After a meeting in Stornoway on Monday, the meetings continued yesterday in Lerwick and today in Kirkwall.

For anyone who can't make it to their nearest roadshow, a podcast of the presentation is now available to listen to online, together with a set of slides used at the meetings.

The roadshows are designed to give members of the public an opportunity to find out more about the European CAP reform proposals. After Scottish Government officials have outlined the European Commission proposals and their likely impact on Scotland, there will be a question and answer session.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said:

"I'm sure the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy will be a hot topic for debate among Scotland's rural communities in 2012, particularly as the negotiations have now begun in earnest in Europe.

"I'm determined to get a fair deal for Scotland's farmers and I'm equally determined to ensure that Scottish farmers are kept informed about what's going on. These meetings are a key part of this process and I hope as many people as possible will take the opportunity to attend - I certainly hope to get along to some of them myself.

"But, for those who can't make it, we have also prepared a podcast which will allow people to listen to the presentation whenever and wherever is convenient for them. These roadshows are a key step in helping people understand some of the important issues that we will be seeking views on in the forthcoming consultation.

"I'll be making sure Scotland's voice is heard - both in Brussels and Westminster - throughout the negotiations. These meetings are a chance for Scotland's rural communities to have their say as well."

The roadshows, which start at 7.30pm, take place in Lerwick Museum (January 10) and Kirkwall's Albert Hotel (January 11). The programme of meetings continue until February 1.

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