23
Apr
2024
Watch
Production and marketing of plant reproductive material - Production and marketing of forest reproductive material (joint debate - Plant and forest reproductive material)
Mr President, high-quality seeds are fundamental in any agri-food, productive and competitive system. They offer higher yields, ensure plant health, provide resilience against pests and diseases and improve the efficiency of water and fertilizer use. This – we all know – is crucial for farmers regardless of the size of their holding or their geographical location. In Europe, more than 30% of crop yield loss is attributed to these pests and diseases. The vote scheduled for tomorrow on strengthening phytosanitary requirements for agriculture highlights the importance of plant health. However, the proposals that are being put forward reduce – in my opinion – the guarantees for farmers and reduce those very important controls. Leaving the door open with the excuse of biodiversity to unchecked and uncertified seeds is an unnecessary risk. I also take this opportunity to say from here that it has been a privilege to work in the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and to meet so many good colleagues, such good professionals and extraordinary people. And, of course, they have represented a privilege and an honor to defend the interests of Spain's farmers and ranchers.