A recent debate in the Azorean parliament on the production of São Jorge cheese has sparked controversy among the islands. The discussion centered on two proposals presented by the parties that form the government, PSD, CDS-PP, and PPM. These proposals aim to provide specific support for the reconversion of milk production to meat production on the island of São Jorge and promote the cheese in international markets. The opposition argues that such measures would create unequal treatment among the islands.
The leader of the CDS-PP parliamentary group, Luís Silveira, presented one of the proposals, citing the high volume of milk delivered to dairy cooperatives on the island, which has reached its maximum capacity of 30 million liters per year. Silveira emphasized the need for controlled and responsible reconversion, working closely with the cooperative sector. He also highlighted the importance of creating support for the production of beef cattle, as the dairy cooperatives struggle to market the cheese due to difficulties in the market.
However, the opposition parties strongly disagree with the proposal, arguing that it would favor only the farmers on the island of São Jorge, who produce a product with added value. They claim that the support for reconversion should be extended to producers on other islands as well. Francisco Lima, a deputy from the Chega party, warned that if the problems of the São Jorge dairy sector are addressed, it would be at the expense of other islands. Nuno Barata, a deputy from the Iniciativa Liberal, also questioned the logic of approving an exception only for São Jorge.
Isabel Teixeira, a PS deputy elected by São Jorge, acknowledged that milk production on the island is facing difficulties but believes that the solution lies in allowing reconversion that includes other islands. António Lima, a deputy from the Bloco de Esquerda, also expressed concerns that the measure could lead to other producers demanding similar support. The parties' disagreement led to a heated debate, with the CDS-PP proposal being approved only with the votes of the three parties in the coalition.
To calm the situation, the regional Secretary of Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, assured that the government agrees with the CDS proposal but will allow support for reconversion to reach producers on other islands. He mentioned that this is already being done on the islands of Graciosa, Terceira, and São Miguel. The PSD also presented a proposal to support the promotion of São Jorge cheese in international markets, which generated some controversy among the opposition parties.
The PSD proposal was approved by almost all parties, except for the CH, PAN, and IL, which voted against it. Paulo Silveira, a social-democrat deputy, justified the proposal by highlighting the need for a strategic effort to promote and market the cheese, as well as open new markets to ensure effective production drainage. The debate highlights the challenges faced by the Azorean dairy sector and the need for a comprehensive solution that addresses the concerns of all islands.
The controversy surrounding the support for São Jorge cheese production has sparked a broader discussion about the future of the dairy sector in the Azores. The debate will likely continue, with parties seeking to find a solution that balances the needs of different islands and producers. The outcome will have significant implications for the region's agricultural industry and the livelihoods of many farmers.
Key points
- The Azorean parliament has approved a proposal to support the promotion of São Jorge cheese in international markets.
- The opposition parties argue that the support for reconversion should be extended to producers on other islands, not just São Jorge.
- The debate highlights the challenges faced by the Azorean dairy sector and the need for a comprehensive solution that addresses the concerns of all islands.
