MP Burhan Baran requests inclusion of Xanthi in €8 livestock compensation scheme

In his question directed to the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, Baran emphasized that livestock breeders in Xanthi, like those in Evros (Meriç), are facing severe challenges, particularly due to the ongoing impact of lumpy skin disease (LSD).

Referring to statements made by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Christos Kellas during a parliamentary session on May 12, Baran highlighted that a €63 million special De Minimis support package will be distributed based on regional damage assessments, with aid ranging from €4 to €8 per animal.

While livestock producers in Evros are set to receive the maximum €8 per animal, Baran noted that Xanthi, especially the municipality of Topeiros (İnhanlı), is experiencing equally or even more severe circumstances. A new outbreak of lumpy skin disease was detected on May 7 in the village of Bekkeovasi, leading to the reintroduction of quarantine measures.

According to official statements from Topeiros Municipality, 21,500 of the 24,000 animals lost in the Xanthi region were from within its jurisdiction. Baran stressed that the devastation has financially crippled hundreds of livestock farmers, and the damage extends beyond the loss of animals to include reduced production, increased restocking costs, and feed shortages.

Baran warned that excluding Xanthi from the increased support not only creates inequity but also fails to acknowledge the true scale of the damage, triggering widespread discontent and frustration among affected farmers.

In his concluding question, MP Baran asked:

“In light of the extensive damage caused by lumpy skin disease — especially in the Municipality of Topeiros — does the Ministry plan to include Xanthi among the regions eligible for the increased €8 De Minimis aid per animal, as is the case with Evros?”