Green Party MP exposes crises in farming, schools and trade at local forum
Dozens of guests from politics and civil society gathered for a recent event featuring Dr. Ophelia Nick, a Bundestag member from Alliance 90/The Greens. The main event included discussions on farming challenges, school meals, and trade policies. Local chapter co-chairs Christian Pelikan and Karin Fetzer opened the event with a call for tolerance and respect.
Pelikan and Fetzer welcomed attendees before handing over to Dr. Nick, who began by sharing updates from the Green Week. She highlighted the struggles of German farmers, noting that while most work tirelessly, around 260,000 agricultural holdings face an uncertain future. Over half of these farms lack a successor, putting their operations at risk.
Dr. Nick also criticised recent EU decisions, including cuts to organic farming funding and increased diesel tax rebates for agricultural businesses. She explained how these changes could worsen financial pressures on farmers already struggling to stay afloat.
Beyond agriculture, she addressed the shortage of swimming lessons for children, blaming a lack of instructors and delays in pool renovations. Another key topic was school meal programmes, with Dr. Nick pointing out that 60 percent of children now eat at school rather than at home. She stressed the importance of ensuring these meals remain nutritious and accessible.
The discussion also touched on international trade. Dr. Nick mentioned the European Greens' opposition to the Mercosur agreement, arguing that the deal could undermine environmental and labour standards.
The main event covered a range of pressing issues, from farm sustainability to children's access to swimming lessons. Dr. Nick's remarks underscored the need for policy changes to support struggling sectors. Attendees left with a clearer picture of the challenges ahead in agriculture, education, and trade.
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