Cyprus is joining the wave of agricultural protests happening all over Europe. Farmers are taking their tractors to the streets and blocking roads due to new policies from the European Commission. These changes mean big funding cuts. Farmers want the Government to know that they can’t take it anymore. They are unpaid and need real, lasting support.
Recently, the agricultural community in Europe has been upset. This follows Ursula von der Leyen’s plan to cut funding by 89 billion euros and combine the special agricultural fund with the general EU subsidy fund. This means all funds will come from one pot, making competition for resources tougher.
Kyriakos Kailas, president of Panagrotikos, told REPORTER that this new policy will drastically cut per-hectare subsidies. Farmers getting up to 25,000 euros will see a 25% cut. Those getting between 25,000 and 50,000 euros will face a 50% cut. For subsidies over 50,000 euros, the cut is a whopping 75%. “No one can survive under these conditions,” he said.
This policy has caused strong reactions from governments in member states. It could either raise product prices or lead to farmers quitting their work, which would hurt society and the economy.
Meanwhile, the Police announced that protesters from all areas will meet at GSP Stadium parking lot and at “JUMBO” in Nicosia. They will then march towards the Presidential Palace and the House of Europe. Expect changes in traffic and more agricultural vehicles on the move.
Farmers are also demanding immediate payment of emergency subsidies that should have been paid at the start of the month. They want major changes regarding leasing state land too.
