rki.news | Sources: Anadolu
PARIS, July 22: The French parliament has finally approved an emergency agricultural bill that allows limited exceptional use of two pesticides banned in the country under specific conditions, according to media reports.
The Senate gave final approval to the legislation on Tuesday after the National Assembly passed it with a 296-224 vote following a heated debate. The bill authorizes France’s food and environmental safety agency, ANSES, to permit the use of acetamiprid and flupyradifurone in certain agricultural sectors facing serious difficulties.
Both pesticides are banned in France but remain authorized under European Union regulations. The government rejected amendments aimed at removing the acetamiprid provision, drawing criticism from several lawmakers.
Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard defended the bill, saying it provides practical support for farmers facing challenges. Meanwhile, Ecological Transition Minister Monique Barbut, who opposed the pesticide measure, announced plans to submit her resignation.
Left-wing parties criticised the legislation and indicated they may refer it to the Constitutional Council. Farmers’ union FNSEA welcomed the approval, calling it a significant step for French agriculture, while environmental groups strongly opposed the decision.