Answer given by Vice-President Jourová on behalf of the European Commission
13.7.2023
On 8 September 2022, the Commission endorsed the Netherlands’ recovery and resilience plan. It foresees a subsidy scheme for the cessation of intensive pig farming ( EUR 275 million ) and a comprehensive nature restoration scheme ( EUR 714 million ). It is up to the Dutch authorities to implement this plan.
On 2 May 2023, the Commission adopted two state aid decisions approving two schemes to reduce nitrogen deposits on nature conservation areas[1]. Under the two schemes, livestock farmers may apply for compensation for their voluntary closure of livestock husbandry sites.
The Commission presented the annual European Semester Spring Package on 24 May 2023[2]. The country report for the Netherlands states that the intensive agricultural sector is the main source of nitrogen deposits in nature.
Possible solutions to reduce nitrogen emissions include: (i) reducing livestock numbers, (ii) accelerating the transition to circular and organic agriculture and (iii) cutting the use of chemical pesticides and inorganic fertilisers. The Country Specific Recommendation asks the Netherlands to support the transition towards sustainable agriculture.
It falls within the tasks of Heads of Cabinet of Members of the Commission to have contacts with representatives of Member States.
During such contacts, the Commission offered information about the different European rules on compensation in case of compulsory and voluntary closure of farms.
At no stage did the Commission pressure the Netherlands to choose one way or another. The choice of instrument(s) rests with the Member State.