Livestock farmers protest in Gümülcine against government policies
In a statement, the farmers expressed anger over being blamed for the sector’s problems:
“We are not the ones who brought animal husbandry to this state; producers are paying the price for political decisions.”
Farmers pointed to the spread of foot-and-mouth and lumpy skin disease, the OPEKEPE scandal, rising production costs, and the abandonment of rural areas, saying that they are unfairly held responsible.
“We are always accused, but the real responsibility lies with the politicians,” the statement added.
Key Demands
In their declaration, the livestock farmers called on the government to assume economic responsibility for its political decisions. Their main demands include:
- Compensation of at least €50 per animal culled due to foot-and-mouth and lumpy skin disease, along with continued support for those rebuilding herds into the second year.
- Suspension of insurance, tax, and bank debts for affected farmers.
- Immediate coverage of increased feed costs caused by quarantine measures, plus additional compensation for extended quarantine zones.
- Support for producers unable to sell livestock or forced to sell at low prices.
- Subsidies directed only to active producers.
- Transparent announcement of subsidy payments and penalties for fraudulent claims.
They also demanded that grazing land allocations remain fixed until pasture plans are completed, a new nationwide livestock census, and the removal of ATAC requirements in OΣΔΕ declarations.
“We Demand Responsibility, Not Excuses”
Accusing the government of focusing on public relations instead of real solutions, the farmers stated:
“So far the government has tried to shape perceptions, but in practice has shown indifference, incompetence, and arrogance. We do not want excuses — we demand concrete responsibility.”
