Opposition to new reporting tool in the National Council
Published: Tuesday, Sep 17th 2024, 15:10
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The National Council has voiced opposition to an electronic tool that will require professional users to report the use of plant protection products and the trade and use of nutrients in future. The large chamber adopted a motion from the SVP calling for an exemption for farmers.
The proposal was submitted by Nicolas Kolly (SVP/FR). The Council supported it on Tuesday by 95 votes to 90, with five abstentions. The motion was supported by the SVP and individual members of the Center and FDP parliamentary groups. It will go to the Council of States.
The motion calls for the obligation to use the Digiflux digital platform to be lifted. Kolly argued with the growing administrative burden on farmers and the increasing number of requirements they have to meet. Agriculture Minister Guy Parmelin disagreed and recalled the origins of the obligation.
These are based on the bill passed by Parliament three years ago to reduce the risks associated with the use of pesticides. In reliance on these new regulations, the people and cantons rejected the drinking water initiative and the initiative for a ban on synthetic pesticides at the ballot box.
Returning to these decisions would be contrary to good faith, Parmelin warned. The Federal Council emphasized that Digiflux should keep the reporting effort as low as possible.
Incidentally, it is not only farmers who have to use the tool, but also other professional users of plant protection products, including municipalities, golf courses and horticultural companies. The obligation will be introduced from the beginning of 2026; preparations are currently underway.
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