João Ponte assures that the agricultural sector remains priority for the Regional Government
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry stated on São Miguel that the increase of five million Euros in the Region's own funds for agriculture under the 2019 Plan demonstrates that the sector remains a priority for the Azorean Government.
"It is a guarantee that the agricultural sector remains a priority and demonstrates the Regional Government's determination to maintain a strong public investment in one of the main sectors of the regional economy, with impact on economic growth and territorial cohesion," said João Ponte. He added that the proposed increase in funds is well above the growth percentages registered in other sectors of activity.
The government official spoke at the delivery of the "Excellent Producer 2017" award, an initiative organised by the São Miguel Young Farmers' Association. This year, it distinguished about 700 farmers for the good quality of milk produced in their farms.
Addressing young farmers, João Ponte stated that they are the face of the industry's rejuvenation and that the entrepreneurial spirit and motivation they demonstrate in overcoming challenges guarantees that the agricultural sector continues to have a future.
The Secretary for Agriculture pointed out that the good indicators in the agricultural sector are not only the result of public policies, but also of the investments made by farmers on the modernising and improving the efficiency of dairy farms, with focus on genetics and the use of milk contrast.
"It is imperative to continue focusing on the modernisation of agricultural infrastructures, so that farmers may have better working conditions and reduce production costs," said João Ponte. According to him, the electrification of farms in recent years contributed to refrigeration of about 50% of the milk produced on São Miguel, with very positive impacts on producers' income."
Despite the good results achieved, João Ponte acknowledged that everything is not done, pointing out, as example, the price of milk paid to producers, which should be fairly increased.
"We will continue to do what falls within the Government's powers: working to create better conditions for farmers, providing technical and financial tools for the modernisation of the agricultural sector and supporting the industry to add value to its production," stressed the government official. As he emphasised, producing with increased quality, investing in the differentiated products that bring more added value and conquering new markets are permanent goals.
João Ponte pointed out that 143 applications for the installation of young farmers were approved under the current Community framework, representing a public expenditure of 5.4 million Euros, while 640 projects amounting to more than 73 million Euros were approved for the modernisation of farms.
"As for PRORURAL+, we have registered a high commitment rate as far as the investment in farms is concerned. In the context of the financial framework transition period, the Regional Government intends to request the European Commission the opening of a call for farmers, allowing them the ensure by 2020 the co-funding of their investments under the new framework.
As for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the 2021-2027 period, the government official emphasised the importance of ensuring fair and adequate financing to meet the expectations of Azorean farmers. In this regard, the Regional Government has been doing everything to ensure this goal.
João Ponte also announced the anticipated payment of Community aid, which will alleviate the financial burden on regional farms.
"As usual, the anticipated payment of Community aid under PRORURAL+ and POSEI will be made in the end of the month. This year brings a novelty, which includes the anticipated payment of 70% of the slaughter premium concerning the first six months of the years and the so-called 1$25 aid," João Ponte said, adding the total amount to be paid will be "very significant."