Zagreb - The opposition on Wednesday sharply criticised Agriculture Minister Josip Dabro for not coming to parliament to present a bill of amendments to the Agriculture Act, warning that agricultural subsidies have never been higher while production has never been lower.
“Minister of agriculture, come and answer questions about agriculture. Subsidies in agriculture have never been higher, production has never been lower and food more expensive,” said Miro Bulj (Bridge), criticising the fact that a state secretary presented the amendments instead.
Over the past two years, the price of bread has increased by 57%, sugar by 54%, eggs by over 50%, and meat by around 40%, Bulj said, questioning to whom agricultural subsidies are going.
Jeckov: The minister proposed solutions during the campaign but hasn’t implemented any
“When the Agriculture Act is being adopted, it is logical for the minister to be present,” said Dragana Jeckov (Independent Democratic Serb Party).
Agriculture in Croatia continues to face structural challenges, such as a lack of investment in capital, technology, research and development, while bureaucratic burdens also hinder farmers, she added.
“We expect concrete actions from the minister because he, along with his colleagues from the party, constantly proposed certain solutions during the election campaign, but has not implemented any in the past period,” Jeckov said.
Anka Mrak Taritaš (GLAS) also said the minister should have come to parliament.
The minister is aware of all the problems in agriculture and for that reason is touring Croatia, said Dabro's party colleague Ivica Kukavica (Homeland Movement).