EN 
LV We want to agree on solutions to the electricity issue at Congress
On Friday, March 9, the annual congress of the association "Farmers' Council" will take place at Bulduri Horticultural Secondary School, during which farmers hope to agree with the Minister of Economics Arvils Ašeradens on specific solutions to the electricity issue. Farmers will also be informed and will discuss with the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture about current events in the agricultural sector, and the opening of the book "Bread of Power" written by "Farmers' Council" and writer Ilze Būmane will take place.
In the first part of the congress, the organization's management will inform about the achievements of 2017 and outline the most important tasks for 2018.
2017 has been full of challenges for farmers – changes to the electricity payment procedure developed by the Ministry of Economics, new tax policy, surprises caused by the climate, and crumbling rural infrastructure, etc. We have invited the leadership of the Ministries of Agriculture and Economics to discuss these and other issues important to farmers.
Juris Lazdins, Chairman of the Association “Farmers’ Council”: “The amendments currently being drafted to to solve the problem of seasonal electricity connections, is under public discussion. On Friday, we have invited the Minister of Economics Arvils Ašeradens to participate in the congress in order to specifically agree on rules appropriate for farmers. Firstly, to cancel the fee for the mandatory procurement component of capacity per ampere. Secondly, to offer farmers the opportunity to partially reduce or temporarily disconnect the capacity at the facility for at least 9 months. We also hope that the promise of the “Distribution Network” is still valid – to build another electricity connection on the farm free of charge.
"I am pleased that the Ministry of Economics' activities in resolving the issue were quite dynamic and constructive, however, we are currently expecting the implementation of regulatory enactments as soon as possible, because every day causes significant financial losses for farmers."
The leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture will inform farmers about the challenges that the future Common Agricultural Policy will pose for farmers. We will hear the most current information and the situation in the global milk, meat and grain markets. Farmers will also be informed about external threats to Latvian agriculture related to pests and diseases.
The second part of the congress will feature the opening of the book “Bread of Power” by the “Farmers' Council” and writer Ilze Būmane. During the event, we will look back on the first 20 years of the organization's activities, as well as enjoy a musical performance by the band “Tautumeitas”.
ZSA congress starts at 11:00, registration of participants from 10:00
The second part of the ZSA congress, book opening celebration at 2:30 p.m.
Apply by calling 67027044 or by email: birojs@zemniekusaeima.lv
Representatives of the mass media are also invited to participate in the congress.
