Protests by Greek stockbreeders at reduced compensation payments for 2013
20.8.2014
Question for written answer E-006317-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Notis Marias (ECR)
Assistance for stockbreeders in Greece is currently provided under measures 211 and 212 of the National Strategy Plan (NSP) for Rural Development in accordance with current EU legislation.
However, the compensation recently paid out for 2013 was massively reduced from previous years, prompting angry protests by stockbreeders driven to the wall as a result of the economic crisis, the rising cost of supplies, equipment and energy and the heavy burden of property taxes and other levies under the terms of the Memorandum.
In view of this:
- 1.Is the Commission aware off the drastic cuts in compensation payments to Greek stockbreeders for 2013?
- 2.What direct measures will it take and when to ensure full compliance with the relevant EU provisions by the Greek authorities and in particular the agency responsible for the payment and monitoring of EU guidance and guarantee aid in Greece (OPEKEPE), so as to remedy the injustices suffered by Greek stockbreeders as a result of the reduced compensation payments for 2013?