Key role
The Intergroup “Biodiversity, Hunting, Countryside” held its first meeting for this legislature, reaffirming its key role within the European Parliament for rural demands. The meeting focused on electing the Intergroup leadership and setting priorities for the coming years. Juan Ignacio Zoido MEP (Spain, EPP) was elected President. An agreement was also reached on the list of Council members: Alex Agius Saliba (Malta, S&D), Isabel Benjumea (Spain, EPP), Herbert Dorfmann (Italy, EPP), Pietro Fiocchi (Italy, ECR), Céline Imart (France, EPP), Stefan Köhler (Germany, EPP), Christine Singer (Germany, Renew Europe), Riho Terras (Estonia, EPP).
The presence of FACE
After his election, MEP Zoido said: “I am proud to lead this strong and diverse Intergroup, bringing together MEPs from different EU Member States and political groups, ensuring a broad representation of rural interests. With a balanced and dynamic Board, we are ready to defend and promote the values and traditions of the European countryside.” The European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE) and the European Landowners’ Organisation (ELO) were present at the meeting as the Intergroup’s co-secretariat. MEPs in attendance approved a provisional work programme for the Intergroup.
The main stakeholders
Dr David Scallan, Secretary General of FACE, said: “With the support of over 100 MEPs from across the political spectrum, this Intergroup will be a key platform for discussing a range of policy initiatives related to the environment, sustainable hunting and land use within the European Parliament. We will continue to support open and constructive discussions between policy makers, the European Commission and key stakeholders to promote the crucial role of rural communities in European policies.” Jurgen Tack, Secretary General of the ELO, said: “The appointment of the Intergroup Board marks a pivotal moment for Europe’s rural areas. As the only platform dedicated to defending the countryside, it must bridge the gap between politicians and land managers. Together, we must ensure that rural voices are heard and that policies support those who safeguard our land, food security and biodiversity.” With a strong mandate and broad support, the Biodiversity, Hunting, Countryside Intergroup is set to become an important platform for discussing policies that impact the countryside, conservation and rural livelihoods across Europe. (Source FACE)
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