Ludmila Catlabuga on farmers’ protests: They have every right to protest and I will stand by them

Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga gave an extensive response after farmers announced their intention to organize protests, stating that she understands their grievances but calling for the demonstrations not to be used for political purposes. Her statements were made during a show on the Realitatea TV channel.

“I don’t want to upset anyone. I want to express my full respect for the farmers. I am grateful for the work they do every day and for the risks they have taken in recent years,” the minister said.

The official emphasized that farmers have the right to protest, but insisted these actions must remain outside political games. “Certainly I do not want these protests to take on a political tone or for farmers to be used in these protests as a tool to boost political capital. That is why I very much want them to analyze this situation as well,” Ludmila Catlabuga said.

The minister reiterated that she will remain in dialogue with the farmers and that the authorities will step in with explanations and solutions where needed.

“They have every right to protest and I will stand by them. I will continue to communicate, provide details and come forward with solutions. If there are delays or if at the moment there is not enough information, I will explain the situation openly,” she added.

Farmers have announced that they will once again take their machinery out into the streets in protest on June 24 if their demands are not met. Representatives of the “Force of Farmers” Association say the authorities have not provided a concrete response to the farmers’ requests after their mid-month protests. They also stated they are dissatisfied with the draft budget and tax policy announced for next year.

They claim that the document provides, among other things, for an increase in VAT on agricultural production and other measures that could significantly worsen working conditions in the sector. “Force of Farmers” has announced that it will again request a working meeting with the ministers of Agriculture and Finance to discuss the sector’s urgent problems.