PASOK vs. Hatzidakis: Clash Over Farmers' Issues

A heated debate has erupted between PASOK and Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis regarding the situation of farmers and government policies in the primary sector.

PASOK accuses K. Hatzidakis of distorting reality and presenting a false picture of a thriving agricultural sector. They claim that direct aid to farmers is the lowest in recent years and that significant funds are being channeled to ineligible recipients.

Specifically, PASOK states that over 1 billion euros have ended up in the wrong hands and that the government has lost over 220 million euros due to its inability to allocate funds. They also point to delays in compensation for damage from the DANIEL and ELIAS storms.

For his part, K. Hatzidakis' press office responded with a statement accusing PASOK of "ignorance and demagoguery." It argues that direct aid remains at the same level and that surplus funds will be paid to real producers in 2026. In addition, it emphasizes that the total amount for 2025 is greater than that of 2024 due to increased ELGA payments and other aid.

The controversy continues with mutual accusations and conflicting assessments of the state of the agricultural sector and the effectiveness of government policies.