The leaders of the four central political groups in the European Parliament (EPP, S&D, Renew Europe and the Greens) have sent a letter to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, delivering a clear rebuke of her highly controversial proposal for National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPP).
Our flash action in Strasbourg last week foreshadowed this development, with a large number of MEPs from all political groups coming out to support our message on the multiple red lines crossed by the Commission with the July 1 6 CAP/MFF proposals.
Members of the European Parliament share Copa and Cogeca’s analysis, both in substance and in form: the proposed dissolution of the CAP into a Single Fund is a historical misstep and a regression that is as unacceptable as it is dangerous for the future of our sector and for the food security of an entire continent!
In their letter, the leaders of the four parties express concern over a problematic re-nationalisation, the need to maintain a dedicated CAP budget, the preservation of a level playing field for our agriculture and a reform with an inherent democratic deficit. Consequently, they warn that without responses on these key points from the European Executive, the Parliament may reject the NRPP.
Copa and Cogeca that have been ringing the alarm bell and repeatedly mobilising on the dangers stemming from the Single Fund approach, welcome this parliamentary initiative. The President of the European Commission must heed the historic message sent today. An alternative approach is both possible and essential at this stage; a few cosmetic amendments or a sprinkling of additional budget will not suffice.
European farming organisations call for an alternative that respects the very nature of the CAP, maintaining it as an independent policy with two pillars, a secure and independent budget and inflation-proof funding that complies with EU treaty provisions.
We call on Members of the European Parliament, as well as the European Council, to remain extremely firm on this issue. We also assure the co-legislators of our determination and full mobilisation on a matter that is vital for millions of farmers, cooperatives, and rural communities.
Fonte: Copa Cogeca
