The Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved a broad financial support package for livestock farmers affected by the foot-and-mouth disease measures, including compensation for culled animals, cover for operating needs and assistance to help holdings resume production.
The decisions were based on recommendations from a special scientific committee involving the relevant state services, with the aim of providing immediate relief to producers and supporting the gradual recovery of affected farms.
Under the package, compensation for livestock will range from €47 to €420 per sheep or goat, from €150 to €2,500 per cow, and from €35 to €5,000 per pig.
According to the government, the payments will be made without bureaucratic procedures requiring supporting documents, while the approved amounts are above the European average.
The measures also include support for income loss over a period of one year, giving affected farmers time to restore the full operation of their holdings.
The package further provides for the cost of feeding animals during the period in which they are not productive, as well as a plan to rebuild livestock numbers. A designated state officer will also be appointed as a contact point for affected farmers to support the implementation of the measures.
Separately, the Council of Ministers also approved financial assistance for fishermen in Liopetri, allocating €50,000 to support those affected by problems that emerged in the area.
