CEJA welcomes the support expressed by a number of Member States at yesterday’s AGRIFISH Council meeting on the introduction of an aid for land acquisition specifically dedicated to young farmers. Similarly to CEJA’s proposal to the state aid public consultation back in April, Ministers spoke in favour of a “stand alone” admissible investment for land acquisition by young farmers.

CEJA was among the first to work for and applaud the additional supportive measures brought in by the reformed CAP. However, while acknowledging the intention of the Commission to encourage youth employment in agriculture, it is clear that these measures alone will not be sufficient to ensure easy access for young farmers to the sector. Considering the worryingly low percentages of farmers under the age of 35 and taking into account the existing barriers of entry – particularly with regards to the access to land – the proposed provision by the Commission will only have a marginal effect. Echoing the proposal presented in the Council, CEJA asks for land acquisition to be considered as a separate, “stand alone” investment, independent of other investment projects.