The debate over cows' grazing rights is causing a rift among the Tidö parties. Climate and Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari (L) is determined to fight for the existing law, which mandates that dairy cows have access to pasture for at least six hours daily during the grazing season. A government-commissioned report suggests abolishing this requirement, sparking a lively discussion among political parties.
Pourmokhtari Defends Cows' Grazing Rights: 'Important'
Pourmokhtari Defends Cows' Grazing Rights: 'Important'
The issue of cows' grazing rights is dividing the Tidö parties. Climate and Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari (L) is prepared to fight on this matter. – We will fight hard, she says.
The grazing requirement for dairy cows was introduced in 1988 following a campaign led by Astrid Lindgren.
The new animal welfare law established that all dairy cows in Sweden must have access to pasture for at least six hours every day during the grazing season.
However, the law may be on the verge of being overturned.
A government and Sweden Democrats-commissioned investigation into agricultural competitiveness has proposed abolishing the grazing requirement. The proposal has been sent for consultation, but the government has yet to make a decision.
'Different Opinions'
According to Pourmokhtari, the issue divides the Tidö parties.
– We are very committed to the Astrid Lindgren law and believe it is very important for cows to have grazing rights in the summer. This is something we will fight hard for and continue to advocate for in the government's work. Then, the parties have different opinions, so it is a lively discussion.
The Christian Democrats want to modernize the grazing requirement and instead compensate farmers who have their cows outside with subsidies, similar to many European countries.
Pointing to Paulsen
SD's Martin Kinnunen, spokesperson for environmental and agricultural issues, wrote in an opinion piece with Rural Affairs Minister Peter Kullgren (KD) that "another part of the Tidö agreement is being realized."
– It will take its course before we see where we will land, Kullgren said later.
The Liberals believe that animal welfare requirements should be raised at the EU level rather than lowered in Sweden.
– It is good that the law exists to maintain the high standard we have for animal rights in Sweden. This is something Marit Paulsen and many others in my party have fought for a long time, and it is something we will continue to do, says Romina Pourmokhtari.