Launch of massive mask purchase for Farmers and their farmworkers
Based on the needs expressed by farmers, the Fédération Nationale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles (FNSEA) proposed a joint operation for the collective purchase of protective masks. This approach aims to facilitate the response to the protection requirements arising in this pandemic crisis we are going through, both farmers and their farmworkers. Around 900,000 masks have been ordered in a few days and will be quickly distributed on the field, via local professional and union networks.
Rebuilding Our Agricultural Independence: A Major Post-Crisis Priority
While the Head of State, in his speech of April 13, displayed his desire to “rebuild French agricultural independence”, the agricultural profession, through the FNSEA, takes note of this desire which resonates as a decision of essential political awareness of the role of agriculture in building a strong and independent nation. Undeniably, the crisis we are experiencing must be an opportunity to lay the foundations for a French agricultural renewal, assumed and conquering. A vision also shared by the French, who testify for 93% of them, in a recent Odoxa-Comfluence / Les Echos poll, that France’s agricultural autonomy must be the first political priority after the crisis. From theories to practice, the path is still uncertain. The agricultural profession will be at the forefront of defending its vision for the future, even more after years when the alerts on the sector’s economic stall have been ignored. It is in a resolutely constructive spirit that the FNSEA reaches out to the public authorities to propose writing this new page of our agricultural independence, built on resilient, competitive and sustainable agricultural sectors.
Crisis on agricultural markets, FNSEA requires immediate and European response
The FNSEA sent a letter to Commissioner Wojciechowski stressing the importance of the measures adopted or under preparation within the Directorate General of Agriculture, in particular concerning flexibilities in the implementation of the CAP. However, if these measures are necessary, they are not sufficient given the exceptional economic consequences which the French agricultural sectors must face. Imbalances are emerging in the markets, and the situation will worsen with the economic recession announced worldwide. The response must, therefore, be immediate and European: the agricultural profession requires action adapted to each production sector concerned and particular attention from the EU regarding the import quotas for certain products, which are likely to increase market imbalances. The FNSEA has indicated its availability to contribute to the reflections of the European Commission with a view to future market management measures.