The European Commission announced on Thursday 25 July two measures to support farmers facing the waves of drought affecting Europe (see EUROPE 12303/9).
European farmers will be able to receive a higher percentage of their advances in direct and rural development payments. Furthermore, in order to be able to feed their animals, they will have greater flexibility in the use of land that is not normally used for production purposes.
In addition to the support available under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), two decisions have been taken to help farmers: - the latter will be able to receive higher advances. Up to 70% of their direct payments and 85% of rural development payments will be available from mid-October to address their cash flow (compared to a possible 50% advance); - dispensations from certain ‘greening’ requirements for aid will be allowed. These rules concern ‘crop diversification’ and areas of ecological interest, in order to relax rules concerning fallow land.
The Commission stands ready to grant other types of dispensations of this type (greening), in order to allow farmers greater flexibility in fodder production.
The Commission is assessing the effects of drought using European satellites. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)