The European Union has revised its agricultural rules to address concerns raised by farmers, with smaller farms under 10 hectares now exempt from controls and penalties for non-compliance with certain EU farming regulations. The revisions aim to simplify rules and reduce administrative burdens on farmers, while maintaining climate change and environmental goals. The changes were adopted by the Council of the European Union, with majority approval and only Germany abstaining. These amendments were proposed in response to farmers’ protests across Europe against restrictions imposed by the EU’s Green Deal plan. The revised regulations will allow for more flexibility and exemptions for farmers, easing some environmental requirements and administrative burdens. According to a statement from the group, the deal has led to the destruction of Polish agriculture, increased energy costs, a significant fuel tax, a ban on gas-powered cars, high store prices, and substantial transportation expenses.
Thousands of protesters, including members of other branches of the Solidarity trade union like miners and automotive workers, took part in the demonstration. They waved Polish flags and Solidarity banners while carrying signs with messages like “Down with the Green Deal” and “Green Poison.” Some farmers even gave away apples to highlight their plight.
One retired farmer expressed his discontent with the European Union’s Green Deal, calling it a “red deal” rather than a green one. The protesters demanded a meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to address their concerns about the future of family farming in Poland.
The Green Party in the European Parliament opposed the relaxation of environmental regulations for farmers, emphasizing the importance of fair subsidies and protection against unfair imports. They criticized the changes in agricultural policy for favoring agribusiness over farmers’ survival and food security.
Despite the opposition, Europe’s largest farmers’ association, Copa-Cogeca, supported the revised agricultural policy, citing the need to address farmers’ concerns and simplify regulations. They called on EU countries to implement the new rules at the farm level and urged the EU Commission to further streamline the regulations. Please rewrite this sentence.
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