The EU should have moved sooner concerning the introduction of private storage aid (PSA) for pigmeat, Copa president Martin Merrild told European officials this week.
Speaking in Brussels in support of the Polish Farm Minister’s warnings of a “deteriorating EU pork market”, Mr Merrild managed to be both grateful and critical in relation to the EU’s pigmeat performance.
“We welcome the fact that private storage aid will finally be introduced in January to alleviate pressure on the EU pigmeat market,” he said, adding that prices are critical for producers.
“But we regret that it was not introduced sooner.”
The comment was contained in a general message from Copa and Cogeca which also urged EU negotiators to get a move on concerning the EU organic farming review, arguing that producers needed clarity over the new rules.
Mr Merrild (pictured above) also touched on animal health issues and antibiotics, calling for a “pragmatic” approach from the EU.
“It was good that farm ministers discussed (in Brussels this week) EU proposals relating to medicated feed and veterinary medicines,” he said. “It’s important to take a pragmatic approach here.
“Maintaining and improving an animal’s health is one of the best ways to reduce the need for antibiotic treatments. We are committed to promoting the concept of the responsible use of antimicrobials by prescription. Antibiotics should be used “as little as possible, and as much as necessary”.