WRITTEN QUESTION No. 2473/98 by Carles-Alfred GASOLIBA I BÖHM to the Commission. Erosive effects of sheepgrazing
C 182/10 Official Journal of the European Communities EN 28. 6. 1999 Answer given by Mr Fischler behalf of the Commission (6 October 1998) In order to remedy natural imbalances, the Valencia region implements a series of Community measures, among which prominently figure actions under the operational programme for agriculture and rural development under Objective 1 in the Autonomous Community of Valencia. The programme introduces measures for restructuring and modernising the citrus fruit sector, the aim being to improve quality in line with market requirements and so reduce the risks of overproduction in the region. Also included in this programme are environment-friendly measures, namely erosion control, preservation of water resources and increased efficiency in the use of water for irrigation. The compensatory allowances for farmers in less- favoured areas, including mountain areas, also play a role in preserving the countryside by maintaining agricultural activity in these sensitive areas. In connection with natural equilibrium, mention should also be made of the agri-environmental programme which introduces a system of aid for farmers who undertake to cultivate agricultural land in a way that is compatible with the requirements for the protection of the environment and the upkeep of the countryside. This part-financed arrangement includes specific premiums for citrus fruits. In addition, as part of the market organisation for fruit and vegetables, operational programmes for producer organisations are envisaged which, among other things, seek to promote methods for the production and management of waste that are compatible with the environment, in particular with a view to protecting the quality of water, soil and landscape and preserving biodiversity. The Autonomous Community of Valencia will continue in the future to pursue a policy for the harmonised, integrated and sustainable development of rural areas by giving top priority to the protection of the environment and the countryside. (1999/C 182/012) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2473/98 by Carles-Alfred Gasòliba i Böhm (ELDR) to the Commission Subject: Erosive effects of sheepgrazing (30 July 1998) With reference to the aid granted by the Commission to agricultural and livestock activities in the Serra d’Espadá (Castelló, northern part of the Valencia region), has the Commission assessed the effects of such activities on the fragile ecosystem of the area? If so, and if it is apparent that serious harm is being done to the environment, what action would the Commission take in order to prevent irreparable damage to the natural equilibrium? Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission (15 October 1998) As already stated in the Commission’s answer to written question E-2472/98 from the Honourable Member (1), the Valencia region agriculture and rural development operational programme, which is jointly funded by the Community, comprises a wide range of measures on restructuring and modernising agriculture. In respect of the agricultural and livestock-rearing activities to which the Honourable Member refers, the programme includes 6 among other things 6 initiatives to improve fruit and livestock quality, thereby making farms more competitive and ensuring that the environment is better protected. The programme also jointly funds measures on combating erosion, making more efficient use of irrigation water in order to improve groundwater protection, and applying methods of crop disease control and livestock health inspection. (1) See page 9