Romanian Commissioner-Designate Dacian Ciolos Pleased With EP Hearing Outcome

„I have found debates very interesting. I am acquainted with some of the members of the EP’s Committee for Agriculture and I was pleased to see that CAP has stirred interest and intense debates. I think this is an important step for the future of the CAP,” Ciolos said.

Ciolos also said he had the opportunity to voice his own view on the future of CAP, adding ample consultations are further needed on the issue.

Answering journalists’ questions on the need to find new solutions with respect to complementary direct payments, Ciolos reiterated that „losing money certainly isn’t the target” and highlighted the need for new criteria targeting a rational and balanced distribution of direct payments. He also said that ample talks are to be held to find wiser solutions.

According to Ciolos, the European Union boasts a colorful agriculture and has proved it is capable to propose measures meant to capitalize its farming assets.

„I truly believe we shall achieve balance, but it will all depend on the European Commission, Council and Parliament, as we must not forget that the field of agriculture is based on joint decisions, which is a good thing for CAP,” said Ciolos, whose hearing in the European Parliament ended with rounds of applause.