(Rule 37)

A3-0284/93

Resolution on protection and support for bergamot growing

The European Parliament,

-having regard to the motion for a resolution by Mr Mottola on protection and support for bergamot growing (B3-0307/93),

-having delegated the power of decision, pursuant to Rule 37 of its Rules of Procedure, to the Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development,

-having regard to the report of the Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development (A3-0284/93),

A.whereas bergamot growing is a vital source of income for some 5000 families in a Community region facing severe social and economic difficulties,

B.whereas the bergamot is a typical regional product with very important applications in the perfume and pharmaceutical industries and whereas the necessary protection and support must be provided for it,

C.whereas high production costs and competition from the synthetic substitute are threatening the survival of this typical Mediterranean crop,

D.whereas bergamot growing is important both in ecological terms and for the countryside,

E.whereas no specific Community assistance is being granted for the product at the present time,

1.Considers that Community action is essential, in agreement with the national authorities, to protect bergamot production, which is of vital importance in an area of the Community with poor prospects of employment and economic development;

2.Therefore calls on the Commission to submit appropriate specific Proposals to aid bergamot growing by protecting and supporting production and marketing of this citrus fruit or, failing the above, to allow it to benefit under the measures already in force for citrus fruits in general, in particular with regard to aid for processing;

3.Calls on the Commission to implement appropriate structural measures to improve the facilities for treating and processing bergamot;

4.Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission.