Press Release

05/11/2008

Plant Protection Directive - EP Environment Committee improves safety aspects. Christa Klaß MEP

Training certificate required / helicopter spraying subject to special authorisation / Environment Committee vote at second reading

The future EU legislation on plant protection products is being shaped. The Environment Committee of the European Parliament voted on the package at second reading today. "Plant protection is a medical product for plants and you have to use medical products responsibly. This is why we need more safety for users, consumers and the environment", said the European Parliament Rapporteur on the sustainable use of plant protection products, Christa Klaß MEP.

"We have improved the Common Position of the Council. Information and education are preconditions for the responsible use of plant protection products. This is why every user has to acquire a training certificate which is to be issued by a neutral authority and not by industry. Objective information on the effects, the use and the risks and benefits are the precondition for the application of plant protection products", said Klaß.

"The use of plant protection products has to be based on the precautionary principle and the knowledge of the effects. This should be the guideline of the EU-wide use of the products. Farmers accross Europe should, if possible, also use non-chemical products", the CDU MEP said.

For remote areas, treatment via helicopter spraying is to be possible. Such treatment, however, is to be subject to special authorisation. "People will be informed if there are helicopters flying. So any unintended spraying of human beings or animals will be avoided. Member States should decide on the size of puffer zones along waters subject to the geographical situation on the ground", said Klaß.

"The aim of the Directive is to reduce the risks when using plant protection products. We will try to find the final wording of the text together with the Council over the coming weeks", said the European Parliament Rapporteur who is entering into negotiations with the French EU Presidency.

For further information:
Christa Klaß MEP, Phone +32 2 284 7313
Thomas Bickl, EPP-ED Press Service, Tel: +32-478-215372

Notes to Editors:
The EPP-ED Group is the largest political group in the European Parliament with 288 Members from all 27 Member States.