Introduction
The French government recently announced the implementation of a new administrative control system for agricultural farms. This move follows the persistent demands of major agricultural unions and aims to streamline compliance procedures for farmers.
Key Changes in Administrative Oversight
Under the new system, a single administrative control, overseen by the prefect, will be mandatory for agricultural operations. The prefect will now act as a coordinator, limiting on-site inspections to one visit per year per farm. This coordination extends across various state services and institutions responsible for checks, including the Agence de services et de paiement and government bodies overseeing biodiversity and agricultural policy.
Flexibility in Inspection Timing
Prefects will have the authority to adjust the timing and geographical distribution of inspection campaigns, considering each farm’s circumstances and the agricultural calendar. This flexibility acknowledges the unique needs of individual operations and aims to alleviate the compliance burden on farmers.
Reactions from Agricultural Unions
The simplified control procedures were a major demand during the agricultural protests earlier this year and have been welcomed by the Farmers’ Union (FNSEA) and Young Farmers (Jeunes Agriculteurs). While they celebrate this development, they remain committed to pushing for further simplifications and efficiencies within the administration.
Upcoming Mobilization
FNSEA, the largest agricultural union, and its ally, Young Farmers, are planning a nationwide mobilization starting on November 15 to continue advocating for agricultural reforms. The movement aims to keep the pressure on authorities to prioritize and implement additional measures for simplifying procedures in the agricultural sector.
(Source: The article features information from Le Monde with contributions from AFP.)
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