Interview Najk
NAJK argues in Brussels for the introduction of a 'young farmers test'
Yesterday (Monday 26 September) about thirty young Dutch and Flemish farmers took action with the European Parliament to argue for the introduction of a 'young farmers test' on nature policy. Boerenbusiness spoke with Peter Meedendorp, international portfolio holder of the Dutch Agricultural Youth Contact (NAJK), who was present at the campaign.
What did you do in Brussels?
"We stood at the European Parliament in the afternoon, handed out cheese, sausage and coffee and we talked to MEPs and European Commission officials who came by. We told Flemish and Dutch MEPs - but also from Croatia and Austria - about the 'young farmers test', including Rob Roos (formerly FvD now JA21) and Bert-Jan Ruissen (SGP) and the Flemish Tom Vandenkdelaere."
What is that young farmer's test?
"A socio-economic test to see what policy actually does for business successors. That, in addition to beautiful nature measures, you also have to look at the impact of this on young farmers. Only 15% of the farmers are under 35 and many companies no longer have a successor."
You were together with the Groene Kring, the Flemish equivalent of the NAJK. How are your concerns similar?
"The non-perspective. That they can earn their money better elsewhere, that there is a threat of complete exodus. For us it feels like we are between hammer and anvil. We would like to make more sustainable, we want to make farms future-proof, but we are in the group where the blows fall in terms of the costs of climate and environmental measures. Then why not do something else. Young farmers are often well-educated and why stick your neck out and then earn nothing?!"
Does that also apply to you personally?
"I also see it at home on our arable farm that I would like to take over, but which is close to nature. The focus is now on livestock farming, but the European Nature Restoration Act and the crop protection dossier will also play a role. partly unable to grow potatoes, which raises the question for me: how profitable is it? Those young entrepreneurs who still want to face so many water quality and climate challenges, while not fewer, but more young farmers are needed. "
What has the action brought you?
"It was nice to see that MEPs have come from all political sides, from green to conservative. We are also not anti-environment or climate, we are the last ones to oppose sustainability. We have given our manifesto and they have accepted it all and also want to have further discussions. We will further shape this together with the Groene Kring."
Linda van Eekeres
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