‘Do not fight against suspending derogation decision’

Chairman of Dairy Farming at LTO Netherlands Erwin Wunnekink calls on the BoerBurgerMovement not to fight against the suspension of the derogation decision in 2026. According to Wunnekink, the BBB should make time to make plans. “Until then, we say: move as closely as possible to that derogation decision. Try to deliver on the points stated in it,” said Wunnekink in WNL Haagse Lobby on NPO Radio 1.

The abolition of the derogation decision means that from 2026 farmers must meet European maximum conditions for spreading animal manure. Dutch farmers currently enjoy an exceptional position. Dutch dairy farming is in danger of going under if the derogation disappears.

Research by LTO this month showed that three-quarters of 1,400 dairy farmers foresee financial problems due to the ongoing problems. More than 40 percent are afraid that they will not be able to find a buyer for the manure because it involves sky-high costs.

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According to Wunnekink, if dairy farmers can no longer dispose of their manure, they will be pushed into an impossible dilemma. “Either farmers cull 30 to 50 percent of their cows, then it’s over anyway, or they consciously commit an environmental crime in the hope that things will go well.”

Next year the hammer blow will come, Wunnekink predicts. “Then the reduction is at its highest. Then the manure cannot physically be removed.” If dairy farmers still spread their manure against the rules to stay afloat financially, there is a good chance that they will be exposed when the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority comes along. “Then you will have to pay a hundred thousand euros in fines and you will be gone with your company.”

Wunnekink argues for certainty. “We want to have an overview of the next two years and to be certain that individual entrepreneurs will not be left in a bind. That they don’t have to make the choice whether they should commit fraud or go bankrupt because they have to hand in their cows.”

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By: Rick Hartkamp