In Brussels, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo attended and took part in discussions during which the European Commission presented a series of proposals and initiatives that are currently being discussed at European level.
During the meeting, the European Commission proposed the reduction to zero of the maximum residue levels (MRLs) of certain hazardous substances that may be found in pesticides, a step that will lead to an effective ban on the import of products on which these hazardous substances have been used. It was also stated that the Commission is committed to strengthening controls on imports and addressing the high costs of fertilisers through targeted measures, including a temporary suspension of certain tariffs and the development of an Action Plan on fertilisers.
In addition, the European Commissioner for Agriculture also referred to the letter sent by the President of the Commission to the European Parliament and the Cypriot Presidency regarding certain new proposals aimed at facilitating access to the funds of the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). These proposals include the immediate access to funds amounting to around 45 billion euros, which were already allocated to the CAP but were linked to the submission of a review of the Plans to be carried out later in the next period.
In addition, he confirmed the allocation of 10% of the total resources of the Plans to be spent on investments and projects in rural areas. In addition, the Commission also confirmed the possibility of allocating resources specifically for payments to farmers as compensation in the event of crises and major storms.
In the context of these discussions, Minister Anton Refalo said, “Malta recognises the European Union’s efforts to strengthen global competitiveness, but at the same time emphasises that policies must take into account national realities. The Common Agricultural Policy remains crucial for the competitiveness of our farmers, and therefore there is a need for measures to be adapted to the various national contexts of the Member States, for crisis support instruments to be simpler and more accessible, and for adequate flexibility to be given to the Countries to ensure that there is no reduction in the level of direct aid compared to what is currently being provided, so that Maltese and Gozitan farming is not disadvantaged.”
Minister Refalo also stressed the need for proportionate controls and obligations for small farms, as well as stronger support for rural communities through a reduction in administrative and regulatory burdens. The Minister also pointed out that Malta is closely monitoring trade agreements, and reiterated the importance of ongoing assessments of their impact on European agriculture, to ensure that no sector is disproportionately affected. The Ministry will continue to actively participate in discussions at European level to ensure that the interests of Maltese and Gozitan farmers are reflected in the final positions adopted.
Photo: MAFA
