Livestock farmers in Eastern Macedonia–Thrace slam “Insufficient Aid” in letter to Government
Livestock farmers from the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMT) have issued a strongly worded letter to the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food and regional authorities, criticizing what they describe as “insufficient compensation” and prolonged economic hardship caused by restrictive livestock measures.
Addressed to the Minister, the Ministry’s Secretary General, and the Regional Governor, the letter follows an earlier appeal dated April 6, 2026, which—according to the farmers—has received no official response.
“Crumbs” of Aid Not Enough
Farmers argue that financial support distributed in autumn 2025 falls far short of covering the real costs imposed by government restrictions. “The ‘crumbs’ provided do not even cover a few days of confinement,” the letter states, referring to measures introduced in August 2024.
These restrictions, including mandatory confinement of animals in designated zones, have remained in force for nearly two years, placing significant financial strain on producers who must cover feeding and maintenance costs without adequate compensation.
Call for Fair Compensation
The farmers demand a standardized daily compensation of €1.50 per animal to offset feeding costs during confinement periods. They stress that compensation should apply to all animals within affected farms and only in regions where restrictive measures are enforced.
The measures are linked to efforts to contain outbreaks of Sheep and goat pox, which has led to strict movement controls and biosecurity protocols in certain areas.
Unpaid Compensation and Bureaucratic Delays
The letter also criticizes delays by OPEKEPE, accusing the agency of leaving “thousands” of affected farmers unpaid—particularly those forced to cull entire herds due to livestock diseases.
Farmers question why compensation payments are not being processed promptly, especially in cases officially classified under force majeure due to disease outbreaks.
Growing Frustration in the Sector
While authorities have publicly emphasized support measures for affected farmers, producers argue that the reality on the ground tells a different story. They claim that compensation policies effectively address damages caused by government decisions rather than providing meaningful financial relief.
The farmers concluded their letter by calling for immediate action and a “fair and logical” response to their demands, warning that continued inaction could further destabilize the livestock sector in the region.
