Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, EU Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski has highlighted a remarkable level of support for Polish farmers, claiming that aid totals reached PLN 5 billion thanks to his actions. He noted in an interview that his efforts exceeded expectations, describing the outcome as a personal achievement beyond the target. The assertion was made during a talk with the Polish newspaper Rzeczpospolita on a recent Tuesday.
Wojciechowski’s resignation?
During the same interview, the commissioner faced a direct question about whether he would step down from his post. He responded by reiterating the impact of his decisions on Polish agriculture rather than entertaining that possibility.
Why would I consider stepping away? Since the onset of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Polish farmers have received PLN 5 billion in aid, a result attributed to my actions, he stated.
He explained that early support focused on subsidies for fertilizers. By moving agriculture into the European Commission’s state aid framework, the sector could be better involved in crisis responses, he added.
Manure aid on an ‘unprecedented scale’
The commissioner highlighted fertilizer assistance as a turning point, noting that Poland secured support on an unprecedented scale, amounting to EUR 836 million. He stressed that no other country had achieved this level of backing, and the focus later shifted to grain price subsidies, amounting to EUR 126 million, roughly PLN 600 million, with the goal of stabilizing market prices for farmers.
Additionally, Wojciechowski pointed out the crisis reserve mechanism being used twice to aid farmers, a move he framed as an important innovation in EU agricultural policy.
For the first time in history, the EU activated the agricultural crisis reserve. Poland received 44 million euros initially to support apple growers and pig breeders. In the most recent developments, 56 million euros were allocated to three member states, with Poland receiving a substantial portion and the potential for double funding from national funds.
These remarks were shared in an interview with the publication, underscoring the commissioner’s view of the policy as a practical lifeline during difficult times.
“I did my job 200 percent.”
The interview also touched on forthcoming aid, with plans for the next tranche expected to involve five countries: Poland, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Slovakia. Under Wojciechowski’s proposed framework, Poland could receive approximately EUR 32 million, again with the possibility of double funding, which he described as unprecedented support for the agricultural sector.
He stated that his work had yielded results beyond initial expectations, noting that Poland was among the first to obtain approval for a national strategic plan within the common agricultural policy. The country was one of seven to secure an early approval.
The commissioner also referenced the broader EU funding landscape, mentioning 25 billion euros allocated over five years to Polish farmers through the standard common agricultural policy, along with an additional 2.3 billion euros earmarked for those involved in Poland’s KPO program. He framed these funds as a crucial boost for the agricultural sector, praising the policy framework while acknowledging ongoing scrutiny of its distribution.
By the commissioner’s account, these measures illustrate a proactive approach to crisis management in European agriculture, demonstrating a willingness to respond quickly to the needs of farmers across Poland and neighboring regions. His remarks reflect a broader narrative about the role of EU policies in stabilizing farming livelihoods during turbulent times.
kk/PAP
Source: wPolityce