Following the Chamber of Agriculture's opinion on draft law no. 8060 on support for the sustainable development of rural areas, commonly known as the "agriculture law", Minister Claude Haagen and representatives of the Chamber met several times to find solutions to the issues raised in the law. As a result of these bilateral exchanges, agreements in principle were reached on the following important points:
- Definition of an active farmer:
The definition of an active farmer has been clarified and redefined in order to better target PAC support to productive agriculture while contributing to environmental objectives.
- Support for young farmers:
Support for young farmers will help to promote better professional skills.
- Investment aid:
- (a) investment aid will be adjusted in line with real price developments
- b) the investment limit for the purchase of agricultural machinery will also be increased
- (c) the list of eligible machinery will be revised to better reflect the needs of the agricultural professions
- (d) aid measures will be adapted in order to increase support for investments aimed at environmental and animal protection objectives.
- Reduction of ammonia emissions (Articles 6 and 7):
As livestock has been identified as the main source of ammonia emissions from the agricultural sector, it was decided to introduce a mandatory permit system to prevent excessive livestock growth. To this end, it was agreed that no authorisation would be granted for an expansion if the number of annual work units related to animal production on the farm was greater than five or if the investment resulted in an increase in the number of work units to a number greater than five. However, on the proposal of the Chamber of Agriculture, a solution is being considered to allow farms that meet the above-mentioned standards, are technologically advanced and can demonstrate results in meeting the emission thresholds, to increase their livestock under certain conditions. A working group of experts from the Ministry and the sector is responsible for developing a monitoring system and defining the thresholds to be met.
- Adaptation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP):
Several of the Chamber's proposals will require adjustments to the NSP, which will be carried out within the regulatory framework provided for this purpose by the European Commission.
The jointly agreed solutions should help to address environmental challenges while ensuring the sustainability of Luxembourg's agricultural sector.
After the publication of the Council of State's opinion, the draft law 8060 will be amended, taking into account these agreements and future discussions.
Press release by the Ministry of Agriculture, Viticulture and Rural Development