In Brussels, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo attended the Council of European Agriculture Ministers. Among the topics discussed was Europe’s vision for agriculture and food and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Minister Refalo welcomed with satisfaction that the voice of Maltese and Gozitan farmers and ranchers has been clearly reflected in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Following extensive consultations with agricultural operators in Malta and Gozo, Malta welcomed the European Commission’s commitment to a simplified CAP based on direct aid where payments remain an essential instrument to guarantee a stable income for farmers.
Minister Refalo also stressed the need for flexibility in eco-schemes and in the implementation of measures, in order to adapt them to local realities. “Farmers are facing pressures related to raw material prices and transport prices. Malta as an island has higher operating costs, and therefore we need an evidence-based, flexible and responsive European policy,” the minister said.
During the Council, the minister also stressed the importance of generational renewal and the use of technology as pillars for the transformation of the sector. “We welcome the proposals related to innovation in irrigation and investment in smart systems. The future of European agriculture also needs to attract young people and support small farmers,” concluded Minister Refalo.
Photo (MAFA)
