Özgür Ferhat highlights issues in land transfer process

The New Left Parliamentary Group, led by Rodopi MP Özgür Ferhat, has brought the challenges faced by farmers and livestock breeders regarding land declarations and land transfer rights to the parliamentary agenda.

Through a parliamentary question directed at the Minister of Rural Development and Food, the group emphasized the serious issues affecting the livelihoods of farmers and livestock breeders, particularly their inability to receive state subsidies.

The motion pointed out that 5,300 livestock breeders nationwide, including those from Rodopi, have been unable to access the state aid they are entitled to. The primary causes of this issue include delays in the verification process for land transfers and the inefficiency of the Payment and Control Agency for EU Aid to Greek Agriculture (OPEKEPE).

Additionally, farmers have been experiencing significant difficulties in land declarations. The satellite monitoring system has been incorrectly identifying agricultural lands, classifying many areas as “problematic” and unjustly cutting off state subsidies.

Technical delays in the AgriSnap application, which is used for submitting land photographs, have also put producers at risk of losing their rightful payments.

Questions from the New Left MPs to the Minister:

• What measures will be taken to accelerate inspections and ensure timely payment of state subsidies?
• How will technical errors in satellite monitoring be addressed?
• Is there a plan to extend the deadline for AgriSnap users or introduce an alternative solution?
• What is the expected payment date for eligible beneficiaries awaiting their funds?
• The issue remains a critical concern for farmers and livestock breeders, who rely on state aid for their economic stability and sustainability.