Palionis believes in the Milk Law, but farmers no longer believe in the Minister
Agriculture Minister Andrius Palionis, speaking publicly during a protest by milk producers, expressed his belief that the Seimas of the current term will adopt a new Milk Law. However, the farmers' sentiments show a different reality. Their faith in change is waning, and the Minister himself is no longer trusted by some in the sector at all.
In early April, a poll was conducted in „Agrobite.lt“ administered „Facebook“ groups, asking farmers whether the current agricultural policy meets their expectations.
The results are unequivocal. In all groups, the overwhelming majority of voters chose „no“: „Cattle farming in Lithuania“ – 57 out of 67, „Farmers' advertisements in Lithuania“ – 46 out of 46, „Kaimas & Farm in Lithuania“ – 37 out of 37, „Dairy Farm in Lithuania“ – 70 out of 80 etc.
Although such a survey is not representative, it reflects quite clearly the mood of farmers active at least in social networks.
Strong criticism: „farms are disappearing“, „the minister is not responding“
The comments following the surveys show not only frustration but also a strong emotional background. „The Minister is not even answering calls…“, „The Minister has failed to deliver – Everything is disappearing in Lithuania: farms are disappearing, people are disappearing.“, „In any case, what was expected, is what has happened – nothing new and certainly nothing good.“
Other farmers highlight the wider problems in the sector: „You hear nothing about compensation“, „I honestly think – there is a legal mafia in the dairy sector where nobody can do anything…“
Comments like this show not only criticism of a particular minister, but also a general dissatisfaction with the situation in the dairy sector.
Ministry: „We appreciate all signals“
When asked how he assesses this level of confidence, Minister Palionis stresses the importance of dialogue: „We value all signals and opinions, every position is important to us – we are working consistently to strengthen the dialogue with farmers and to better respond to their expectations.“
However, the Ministry's responses to the criticism are not very specific. When asked about farmers' harsh assessments, the response is rather general: "We understand that some farmers do not shy away from harsher assessments, and we are constantly working together with the social partners to address the problems of the sector and to find long-term solutions." Despite this, the gap between the Ministry's actions and farmers' expectations seems to be widening. Mr Palionis admits that it is impossible to reconcile all interests: "We understand farmers' expectations, but it is not always possible to meet the different needs of all. Nevertheless, we strive to listen to the voice of the sector as much as possible.
Milk Law: a hope or another promise The Minister has not stopped making promises on the Milk Law: „A new draft Milk Law has now been registered in the Parliament, which incorporates the proposals discussed in the working group. It is envisaged that milk sellers and milk buyers will be able to enter into fixed-term or open-ended milk sale and purchase contracts, the price of milk can be fixed or calculated according to factors and price calculation methods set out in the contract, and all applicable premiums and surcharges will have to be set out in the contract and should not be more than 20 per cent of the price of the milk.„ He has a strong hope at the same time: "It is hoped that the proposed provisions will bring more transparency and clarity in the pricing of milk."“
