The state will support farmers who suffered crop losses due to bad weather, Agriculture Minister Costas Kadis said on Monday, after inspecting the widespread damage caused to crops by heavy rain and hail in the Famagusta district. “As one can easily see, the damage is extensive and, in some cases, complete,” the minister said. “The message we want to convey is that the state will stand by our farmers and we will try to pay a down-payment to stricken farmers through expedited procedures.” The minister said preliminary estimates showed that around 200 hectares of potato cultivations have been affected, around 110 hectares of other crops, and 3.5 hectares of greenhouse cultivations. “We urge our farmers to work with the agricultural department in the next few days to submit their applications.” Kadis said the first tranche of compensation will be paid this year. Kadis and officials of his department visited Frenaros, Sotira, and Dherynia on Monday to assess the damage. Party officials including Disy leader Averof Neophytou also visited the area to lend their support. Apart from crops, Sunday’s rainstorm caused damage in other parts of the island. On Sunday, the fire service was kept busy answering calls for help because of heavy rain and storms in all districts. Most involved water in basements and houses, immobilised vehicles and blocked drains. The areas most affected were Strovolos, Lakatamia, Engomi and Anthoupolis in Nicosia. Source - https://cyprus-mail.com