Janusz Wojciechowski, on behalf of the UEN Group. – (PL) Mr President, what I have to say also concerns the problem facing Polish forests mentioned by the previous speaker.

Poland’s forests are a significant resource, but unlike in most EU countries, the majority – more than 80% of the total area – are state-owned. This is the result of a long historical process and at present there are no reasons for a radical change in the structure of forest ownership in Poland. Public opinion in Poland is largely in favour of forests continuing to be state-owned.

The problem is that the EU has thus far discriminated against state-owned forests, denying them support. I am pleased that Mr Kindermann’s report contains one amendment that holds out the hope that the situation will change and that EU support will be given to forests irrespective of how they are owned. This is something we very much need in Poland and we trust that the Commission will demonstrate understanding of the situation.