Controversy Erupts Over Animal Welfare Issues Involving Bayern Farmers' Association President
Günther Felßner responds to criticisms following veterinary inspections on his farm; eyes on agricultural minister position.
Günther Felßner, President of the Bavarian Farmers' Association and designated candidate for the Federal Minister of Agriculture, has publicly addressed recent allegations regarding animal welfare violations at his farm.
Following an unannounced inspection by the veterinary office, which revealed minor deficiencies in animal husbandry practices, Felßner has withdrawn his candidacy for the ministerial position.
In a video statement released by the Bavarian Farmers' Association, Felßner asserted that all identified issues were remedied immediately after the inspection.
He contends that the complaint, reportedly initiated by the animal rights organization Peta, is part of a coordinated campaign against him, stating, “Yes, currently there is an intolerable campaign against me.” He described experiences of personal attacks and intrusions on his farm, which he claims have led to distress for both himself and his family.
In an effort to promote transparency, Felßner shared images of his livestock through social media.
Felßner's political career has been significant since he was elected as President of the Bavarian Farmers' Association in 2022 and subsequently became Vice President of the German Farmers' Association in 2023. His recent engagement with agricultural protests, particularly against cuts to subsidies for agricultural diesel, had already raised his profile within agricultural and political circles.
The veterinary office in the Nürnberger Land district disclosed that during its inspection last week, it found minor inadequacies concerning bedding and waste management in the cattle stalls, along with moderate issues regarding veterinary care for some of the cattle.
Officials confirmed that these issues were resolved within a few days following the inspection.
Despite Felßner's withdrawal from the ministerial role, the Christian Social Union (CSU), his political party, continues to assert its claims to the position, as stated by party leader Markus Söder.
The fallout from these developments highlights ongoing tensions between agricultural management practices and animal welfare advocacy within Germany, raising questions about the future of agricultural policy in the region.
Following an unannounced inspection by the veterinary office, which revealed minor deficiencies in animal husbandry practices, Felßner has withdrawn his candidacy for the ministerial position.
In a video statement released by the Bavarian Farmers' Association, Felßner asserted that all identified issues were remedied immediately after the inspection.
He contends that the complaint, reportedly initiated by the animal rights organization Peta, is part of a coordinated campaign against him, stating, “Yes, currently there is an intolerable campaign against me.” He described experiences of personal attacks and intrusions on his farm, which he claims have led to distress for both himself and his family.
In an effort to promote transparency, Felßner shared images of his livestock through social media.
Felßner's political career has been significant since he was elected as President of the Bavarian Farmers' Association in 2022 and subsequently became Vice President of the German Farmers' Association in 2023. His recent engagement with agricultural protests, particularly against cuts to subsidies for agricultural diesel, had already raised his profile within agricultural and political circles.
The veterinary office in the Nürnberger Land district disclosed that during its inspection last week, it found minor inadequacies concerning bedding and waste management in the cattle stalls, along with moderate issues regarding veterinary care for some of the cattle.
Officials confirmed that these issues were resolved within a few days following the inspection.
Despite Felßner's withdrawal from the ministerial role, the Christian Social Union (CSU), his political party, continues to assert its claims to the position, as stated by party leader Markus Söder.
The fallout from these developments highlights ongoing tensions between agricultural management practices and animal welfare advocacy within Germany, raising questions about the future of agricultural policy in the region.
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