Poland’s Farmers Protests: Statements on Police Conduct and Green Deal Adjustments
Deputy Agriculture Minister Michał Kołodziejczak stated on Radio ZET that he does not agree with or support police brutality against protesters. He described the actions as a bad testimony for the police, noting instances such as people being thrown to the ground, overwhelming force, and the use of tear gas. He added that he would seek an explanation from Minister Kierwiński about these events and would submit an official document to request every possible detail.
The interview question touched on whether the police acted professionally during the farmers’ protest in Warsaw, including whether gas, blocks, and batons were used inappropriately.
Kołodziejczak responded emphatically that he did not consider the police actions professional in that situation. He reiterated his opposition to brutality and stressed that the conduct seen during the protests reflected poorly on the police.
The deputy minister emphasized his intention to push for accountability. He announced plans to formally request information from the police and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration to understand why the incidents occurred and to secure necessary explanations.
Kołodziejczak also pledged support for farmers who had been detained. He stated that every imprisoned farmer could count on assistance from that point forward, highlighting a commitment to stand with those affected by the protests.
When asked whether he would appeal to Minister Bodnar to show leniency toward the detained farmers, Kołodziejczak replied in the affirmative. He warned that Polish agriculture would struggle to cope with the current situation if it remained unresolved, underscoring the broader implications for the sector.
The State Secretary for Agriculture referenced information showing that significant changes would be coming to the Green Deal. He suggested that the adjustments would be substantial and noted that Commissioner Wojciechowski had been somewhat ahead in presenting positive information, yet acknowledged that many officials prefer to highlight good news. Based on the information he received, major concessions were anticipated, including facilities related to the Green Deal and the exclusion of fines.
There appeared to be a lack of consensus within Donald Tusk’s government regarding whether the police actions, particularly the extensive use of direct coercive measures, were justified during the farmers’ protest.
[Citation: wPolityce]
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Source: wPolityce [Citation: wPolityce]