José Luis Aguirre returned to the Cortes bench this week, this time leading the Agriculture department of the Government of Valencia after a four-year stint as a Vox deputy in the regional parliament. In his third set of remarks to council members, Aguirre outlined his department’s four-year plan with a sharp critique of climate activism, the 2030 Agenda, and what he labeled as ecologists who complicate the path for farmers.
Opening with the claim that Vox stands with rural communities, he delivered one of the shorter rounds of engagement, leaving nearly eight minutes unused at the end of his opening remarks and his response. He affirmed his unwavering stance on the issue, declaring it “one thousand percent” he would defend agriculture. He argued that, when compared to the needs of this sector, the Spanish Government prioritizes climate ideology over food security, green deals over fishermen, the 2030 Agenda over rural communities, and animal rights over farmers. He suggested the central government’s stance risks becoming an adversary rather than a partner.
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Aguirre asserted that his department would fight to ensure that farmers, ranchers, and fishermen feel supported and heard in Europe, even in the face of climate activism, political demagoguery, animal-rights campaigns, or the Agenda 2030. He warned that such initiatives threaten the countryside, the regional economy, and the progress of all Spaniards. Critics from opposition parties pressed back, arguing that climate concerns are relevant to rural areas and that denying climate change would misrepresent reality.
On the floor, the plenary session appeared calmer than recent days. Aguirre’s profile and other technical topics drew less drama, with visible participation thinning and a notable absence of a broader parliamentary crowd. The scene contrasted with earlier sessions when the first vice-president and the Minister of Culture led the debate. The mood reflected a consolidation of the regional assembly, with fewer disruptions and more focused discussions.
Aguirre highlighted reform and development within agricultural law as priority goals. He spoke of changes to agricultural buildings aimed at preventing land abandonment, addressing population decline, and ensuring renewal across generations to sustain the farming sector. Easier access to property for young farmers and landowners who are essential to generational turnover was emphasized as a critical objective, along with attention to the benefits of reforming inheritance and gift taxes.
Help wild cattle
He also noted sectors clearly needing aid, including the rabbit, dairy, beekeeping, and wild cattle sectors, which are facing serious challenges in the wake of the health crisis. The government would offer support particularly for these areas because they symbolize significant cultural traditions. This commitment complemented another regional proposal to subsidize transport at the local level.
The debate raised questions about the appointment of Leticia Sanchiz Becquet as general manager for Agriculture and Livestock Production. Sanchiz runs and participates in the management team of Sanchiz Group, a company involved in livestock activities, waste management, biogas, and photovoltaic projects. The administration signaled that any necessary steps would be taken should concerns persist, while Aguirre noted that the matter would be addressed within the proper channels.