The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry announced in Lisbon that the Government of the Azores welcomed the Regional Government's proposal for the implementation of the new family farming statute in the Region.
 
"The Secretary of State for Forestry and Rural Development, Miguel Freitas, assured that the legislation will enter into force in the Azores," stated João Ponte. He spoke on the sidelines of a seminar on Family Farming and Sustainable Development.
 
Last week, the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Forestry requested the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development the widening of the scope of the family farming statute in order to comprise the Autonomous Region of the Azores. This main applies to the exclusive powers of the Government such as the case of, for example, fiscal, social or security matters.
 
According to the Ministry, the new small family farming statute should enter into force by March. It will enforce rights such as priority access to EU funds and a more favourable tax scheme for these farmers, among other aspects.
 
João Ponte stressed that family farming is of "significant importance" in the Azores from a social and economic standpoint. Therefore, the implementation of the measures provided for in the proposed family farming statute in the archipelago is fully justified.
 
João Ponte stressed that the inclusion of the Azores in this statute will reduce difficulties and stimulate this type of activity, making it more attractive and dynamic to new generations. Moreover, it will also mitigate the desertification of rural areas.