In a statement, the union did express concern over cuts in direct support payments, which it said were particularly important for arable farmers. The union wants to see that support, which it estimates at around 40 million euros, replaced by funding from the national government.
Their estimate differs from that of the Ministry of Agriculture, which puts the figure at 20 million euros.
MTK also stressed the importance of finding a replacement for, or a way to continue, the so-called 141 subsidies.
The 141 supports, named for the article 141 of Finland’s accession treaty signed in 1995, are paid by the Finnish government to assist farmers in southern Finland to adjust to life under the EU’s Common Agricultural policy.
They were originally agreed for a 15 year period from 1995, and then extended again in 2008. That deal is set to expire this year, and MTK urged politicians to seek a way to support southern farmers.
In a statement, union chair Juha Marttila also expressed concern over cuts to structural funds, which it said were particularly important for eastern and northern regions of Finland.
