Safeguard clause to be used only in 'last resort'

European Union Agriculture Commissioner Franz Fischler says the government has managed to secure a good deal on agriculture from the EU.

He cited, for example, the agreement on listing the country as a less favoured area, which will allow the authorities to introduce a system that would give additional aid to farmers. "You also have the possibility to increase the investment support programmes for farmers," he said in an interview.

Malta had also negotiated a five-year safeguard clause, basically a mechanism that triggers protective measures in exceptional cases of serious difficulties.

However, there is concern that should serious difficulties indeed arise, the Commission would not be prepared to go along with activating the safeguard clause.

Asked to confirm reports that the Commission appears reluctant to discuss the details of how the safeguard clause would work, Mr Fischler replied: "We have to find ways to discuss how this clause should work in case of exceptional cases of serious difficulties. However, there are certain limitations. For instance, the EU cannot accept the introduction of quota measures.

"We are not reluctant to discuss this point. But, at the same time we want to ensure that this measure is there to be used only in case of a serious market distortion.

"We have to be clear on this point. This mechanism is not meant to be used in normal circumstances. The starting point must always be that - before using such mechanism - a proper analysis of any particular situation must be made and then the proper measure can follow.

"I think there is no other way. This safeguard measure should not be the very first option but the last. The Maltese authorities should not look at this safeguard measure as a readily available medicine for any problems that might arise. This is meant as a rescue measure if there is serious damage."

Mr Fischler said he did not believe EU accession would pose any serious threat to any sector of the Maltese agricultural industry. On the contrary, he believed there were huge opportunities for Maltese farmers. The deal secured by the government would allow vineyards to be doubled and tomato products to be increased substantially, for example.

"I also see very good chances that Maltese farmers can tap the European market on seasonal products, especially vegetables. My advice to Maltese farmers is to think about your strengths."

He urged the local authorities and the industry to seriously start thinking about how to exploit the potential of accession. "Malta can provide very interesting products to the community."

Asked whether he believed the Maltese were being defensive when it comes to agriculture, Mr Fischler said: "It has nothing to do with the Maltese mentality. The same mentality exists in every single member state and, perhaps, worldwide. This is the mentality of farmers".

As to the fear of the local agricultural community that they might be swallowed up by the EU farmers, Mr Fischler said he believed this was not the case.

"Of course, some change in the mentality of the Maltese farmers will be necessary. Up to now the concept was based on the fact that Malta is a small island... that there is a need to protect your sector, that you don't export much but you also don't like too many products to be imported.

"To a certain degree this scenario will have to change but the change will work both ways.

"I come from Austria and the Austrian farmers had exactly the same fears prior to Austria's accession in 1995. Austrian farmers feared they would be flooded by German and Italian products. This did not happen.

"The reality is very different. What is important is that there will be a close link between the farmers, processors and retailers. There must be a certain level of understanding of the consumers' needs in this day and age.

"Maltese farmers should reflect about the potential of investing in very specific niches and focus on them. Branding these products with the Maltese label is of utmost importance."