Tensions are rising among farmers in Thessaly as Agriculture and Food Minister Kostas Tsiaras announced that payments to producers will begin “in the coming period,” following a lengthy three-hour meeting in Larissa with agricultural representatives, livestock breeders, and local farmer associations.
The discussions, however, failed to satisfy the farmers, who demanded a clear and specific payment schedule. Many expressed frustration at the lack of concrete timelines and are now planning potential protests, with a decision expected after further meetings scheduled for tomorrow.
Minister Tsiaras stated that a series of payments will start soon, beginning with outstanding payments for organic products, compensation for livestock feed losses caused by the recent outbreak of sheep pox, and reimbursements for farms affected by flood debris following storm Daniel.
He also announced that several other critical payments are being arranged to support liquidity in the primary sector, including the Basic Aid, Measure 23 (advance payments for crop compensation), and replanting assistance for affected agricultural areas. “These payments will provide real relief not only for Thessaly but for farmers across Greece,” he said.
Tsiaras emphasized that this is a “very difficult period for the agricultural sector,” urging calm and cooperation. “We must take the necessary steps together and ensure we never again find ourselves in such a vulnerable position,” he noted.
Addressing the ongoing spread of sheep pox, the minister underlined that a coordinated national effort is underway, combining scientific input and strict prevention measures. He cautioned that while a lockdown of farms remains a last resort, it has not been ruled out. “We are doing everything possible to avoid that scenario,” he said, adding that all stakeholders must share responsibility for containing the disease.
Farmers leaving the meeting expressed deep disappointment, noting the lack of a clear timeline or new relief measures. Many warned that patience is running out. “The primary sector is dying slowly,” said one farmer representative from Larissa, calling for immediate financial support to ensure survival.
According to the Ministry’s latest data, Greece has recorded 1,290 outbreaks of sheep pox since August, with more than 35,000 animals culled in an effort to contain the spread — a crisis that continues to devastate rural livelihoods.
