Farmers ‘agree’ with government’s ODZ policy

Following a period of intense review and a wide consultation with farmers, the Assocjazzjoni tal-Bdiewa and the Farmer's Central Cooperative Society jointly declared they are in agreement with MEPA's draft document on ODZ policy and design guidance.

"The regulations currently in force did not take into consideration the EU's Rural Development Policy (2007-2013) and many farmers were left high and dry. On the contrary, the new draft proposals are clear, and specific on what can be and can't be done. This will remove ambiguities and speculation," the farmers said in a statement.

They noted the draft document was built on European Union guidelines for Rural Development (2014 - 2020): "A vibrant Rural Economy can now see the light of day in a sustainable manner, diversification will set in to cushion out intensive farming, rural environmental awareness is more focused, and beyond these limits there is zero tolerance."

The farmers said they would now be able to shift to a more quality-oriented food-chain offering the best local fresh fruit and vegetables to consumers.

"Health and safety issues will be more effective, water conservation is now a priority and farmers are being encouraged to shift to more sustainable agricultural practices," the association said.

The Assocjazzjoni tal-Bdiewa and the Farmers Central Cooperative Society will be recommending additional measures to increase efficiency within the EU Rural Development Guidelines (2014-2020) and we are offering our services to stop rural abuse.