Greek MP Ozgur Ferhat raises farmers’ compensation concerns in meeting with ELGA
Ozgur Ferhat, a lawmaker from the New Left Party Greece, met with officials of ELGA in Athens to highlight mounting challenges faced by farmers and agricultural producers in northern Greece.
The meeting, held at ELGA’s headquarters, focused on compensation delays, climate-related crop losses, and the need for more effective support mechanisms.
Cherry and Corn Producers Face Ongoing Losses
Ferhat emphasized that cherry producers have suffered significant losses since 2025, with compensation still pending. He also noted that corn farmers continue to await financial support for damages incurred.
ELGA officials responded that compensation for cherry growers will be assessed under an “ad hoc” support program, subject to approval by the European Union. Payments for insured tree crops are expected to begin on April 7, though these will not cover frost-related damages, a key concern for producers.
Tobacco and Pepper Farmers Also Affected
The discussions also addressed the challenges facing tobacco farmers, many of whom have experienced losses exceeding 30% in recent years due to extreme weather conditions. Ferhat stressed that these producers have largely been excluded from existing support programs.
He called on ELGA to play a more active role by providing the necessary assessments and reports to ensure that promised government aid is delivered.
Rising losses in pepper production, driven by prolonged heatwaves, were also highlighted, with officials indicating that solutions are under consideration and developments may follow soon.
Flood Damage Under Review
In addition, the meeting examined the impact of heavy rainfall in January and February, which caused extensive damage to agricultural land. ELGA confirmed that the issue is under review and that a roadmap for response measures will be announced in the near future.
“We Will Continue to Defend Producers”
Following the meeting, Ferhat reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for farmers’ rights:
“We will continue our efforts in Athens to defend the rights and interests of our producers and farmers. We will intervene in every issue and work toward solutions with a more constructive and effective political approach.”
The visit underscores growing pressure on Greek authorities to address the economic impact of climate change on agriculture and ensure timely compensation for affected producers.
Greek MP Ozgur Ferhat raises alarm over delayed compensation and crop losses in meeting with ELGA. Farmers face mounting challenges from climate damage and lack of support.
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