Agriculture and rural development like husband and wife, says commissioner

A STRONG couple who should stay together under the same policy roof was how European Commissioner Mariann Fischer Boel described agriculture and rural development at a conference in Cyprus.

“If we see agriculture and rural development as a “husband and wife” team, it’s true that the “man” of the household (in other words, agriculture) is still the dominant figure in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Of course, in saying this, I’m taking quite a conservative approach to domestic relationships.

“But in any case, the wife now influences his decisions more and more, and for the last few years she’s been making her own distinct voice heard, while carrying out projects of her own,” she said.

Mrs Fischer Boel said when agricultural and rural development policy are managed together, the first acquires a broader focus than it would otherwise have, and the second keeps a focus that really does fall on the countryside.

“So I say again: In terms of policy, this is a very successful partnership, and it should be allowed to continue,” she said.

Looking to the future, Mrs Fischer Boel said it was important as ever to raise the competitiveness of the farming and forestry sectors.

Mrs Fischer Boel also said she can’t wave a magic wand and make money appear out of thin air. It must come from somewhere.

“This is why, within the health check of the CAP, I’ve proposed to increase the rate of compulsory modulation and spend the money on measures to meet the developing challenges,” she said.