Government allocates millions in compensation and support measures for recovering farmers hit by zoonotic outbreaks.

The Greek government has taken significant steps to support livestock farmers severely impacted by zoonotic diseases. In a session at the Greek Parliament, Christos Kellas, the Deputy Minister of Rural Development, detailed the compensatory measures aimed at helping farmers recover from recent outbreaks that have devastated livestock populations.

According to Kellas, a total of 20 million euros will be allocated for compensation in 2025, with 13.3 million euros already approved for distribution in the 2024 fiscal year, addressing the urgent needs of those affected by livestock diseases.

He noted, “Based on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of 2024, support will be provided to livestock farmers affected by animal diseases, with measures amounting to 13.3 million euros.” This allocation not only displays a commitment to financial support but also indicates an increase in compensation rates from previous years, particularly for sheep and goats, which may rise by over 100% in some categories.

Kellas also confirmed that all applications from regional authorities for farmers affected by disease, such as those whose livestock were culled due to outbreaks, will be processed without delay. “All applications submitted to the Regions for compensation to livestock farmers who have died due to disease or calamities will be approved,” he said.

For requests made after December of last year concerning indemnities for dead animals, the new CAP for 2025 sets forth the allocation of an additional 20 million euros. Out of this, 18 million will directly cover livestock farmers' compensation, and 16,560,000 euros has already been earmarked for distribution, pending signature from regional governors.

Furthermore, Kellas highlighted the approach to rebuilding animal stock through the EU's Measure 5.2, stating, “The investigation of the animal capital will be promoted through the European Union's Measure 5.2, with financing to cover 100% of the losses.” This initiative is designed to facilitate the recovery of herds impacted by disease while ensuring farmers do not bear the costs of restocking.

The government’s strategy goes beyond simple reimbursements; it entails additional support mechanisms to ensure the viability of livestock farming during challenging economic periods. Farmers will receive special financial assistance under the de minimis rule, shaped by the duration and conditions of their animals' confinement during outbreaks. This assistance reflects an understanding of the complexities involved in modern agricultural practices and the financial burdens that arise from livestock diseases.

To further alleviate the economic stresses on farmers, several tax reductions have also been implemented. Kellas announced, “The reduction of the tax burden on cooperative and associated products, which reaches 50%.” This significant tax relief is expected to benefit cooperatives and encourage resilience among local agricultural producers.

Additional measures include the establishment of special utility rates for farmers. “The special valuation of GAEA from DEI, with a value of 0.093 euros per kilowatt-hour, for 2 + 8 years,” Kellas confirmed. These reduced electricity rates aim to help farmers better manage their operational costs over the next ten years, giving them a much-needed financial breather.

The government is also enhancing agricultural production support through tax incentives like reduced VAT rates on essential goods— a move designed to sustain agricultural productivity and support farmers in their everyday commerce.

As a proactive stance, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food has implemented all necessary measures following the emergence of disease outbreaks, ensuring a robust defense strategy against zoonotic threats. These steps have reportedly managed to eradicate animal diseases such as classical swine fever while controlling the incidence of other ailments like lumpy skin disease.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to agriculture’s future, Kellas emphasized that support for farmers and their associations remains steadfast. “The support of the bill for the settlement of ‘red’ loans of farmers and agricultural cooperatives, which is expected to benefit approximately 21,000 farmers and 700 cooperatives,” he stated. This piece of legislation is crucial in assisting farmers struggling under financial strain, helping them to stabilize their operations.

The overall measures announced by the government signify a comprehensive approach to enhance the resilience of Greece's agricultural sector, particularly in the face of ongoing public health challenges such as zoonotic diseases. By providing timely financial support, infrastructure improvements, and regulatory relief, the Greek authorities hope to secure a robust and sustainable future for its livestock farmers and the broader agricultural community.

Source - https://evrimagaci.org