European Parliament
Figueiredo (GUE/NGL ),
in writing
(PT)
The Community programme on the conservation of genetic diversity in agriculture expired at the end of 1999. The Commission is now putting forward a proposal to set up a new Community programme on the conservation, characterisation, collection and utilisation of genetic resources in agriculture. In 2001, Parliament and the Council rejected the previous proposal, which sought the financing of national measures in this area, which was unacceptable and removed the strategic importance of ensuring the maintenance of biodiversity, particularly in view of the Community’s commitments under the various relevant international United Nations conventions.
This is even more difficult to understand in view of the threat to biodiversity posed by a possible raising of the
de facto
moratorium on genetically modified organisms.
The genetic diversity and variety of food crops in Europe have to be preserved, taking account of local and regional differences. To this end, local measures are needed to support farmers in preserving their traditional varieties and breeds and bringing products derived from them to local and regional markets.
I regret that the financial framework proposed for this programme is too limited, in view of the needs already highlighted by the Member States and Parliament itself.

