- NPA Press Release
This is a real scandal that speaks volumes about the political objectives of the European Union. Following a decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union, the “Aid Programme for the Most Deprived” (PEAD) is at great risk of being drastically reduced by 76% in 2012, dwindling to almost nothing.
From 480 million euros, it would drop to 113 million euros, endangering the activities of food banks and associations delivering meals to the poor in member countries, the number of which continues to rise due to the economic crisis.
In France, this aid, which has existed since 1987, accounts for a third of the needs of associations, and the recent INSEE survey showed that poverty in 2009 surged ahead. In other countries, food banks rely on European aid ranging from 50 to 90%.
Reducing the aid by three-quarters means cutting out as many meals served.
Today, the deadlock remains complete, and the decision has been postponed for a month.
Thus, the political powers in place, who rush to the aid of banks by distributing billions of euros, are ready to let millions of poor people, victims of the crisis, starve.
This threat looming over food aid must be stopped. Immediately, it needs to be maintained as it is.
However, the only sustainable solution is stable employment for all and a minimum wage of 1700 euros net, which requires a different distribution of wealth.
