Greek farmers staged nationwide protests on Monday, December 8 shutting the runway at Heraklion airport, blocking key roads and border crossings, and clashing with police over severe delays to EU and government payments.
Police used tear gas after protesters forced their way onto the runway, while others near Chania airport smashed police vehicle windows. Authorities say those involved will be charged.
The anger follows a €600 million shortfall in farm subsidies, linked to a corruption scandal involving falsified land claims. Audits have since slowed payments, worsening conditions for farmers already hit by a major sheep pox outbreak.
“We don’t have help, climate change has influenced production a great deal, all of this with the (corruption) scandal – people who have nothing to do with the profession are getting enormous amounts,” said Lesvos farmer Prokopis Bandzis.
“I want there to be justice. Those involved with the illegal subsidies need to account for (their actions).”
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged farmers to end the blockades and promised €3.7 billion in payments this year, but disruption continued at border crossings and ports across northern, central and island regions.
Source: Reuters
