Stepping up support and protection for apiculture

25.9.2017

Question for written answer E-005937-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Stanisław Ożóg (ECR) , Zbigniew Kuźmiuk (ECR)

Apiculture is only a small agricultural sector, but it plays a very important role in plant production: 80% of plant species cultivated in Europe depend on pollination.

For years, beekeepers and scientists have warned about the decline of bee colonies and the loss of huge numbers of bees, and they estimate that, if the current trend continues, bees could die out completely by 2035.

Although some aid is already given to this agricultural sector, European beekeepers still need greater protection and support, and the Member States must take action with this aim in mind.

1. Is the Commission monitoring the issue, and does it have access to research comparing apicultural issues in the various Member States?2. What action is it taking to support and protect the sector?3. What advice can it give to Member States to help them improve the effectiveness and coherency of their policies?