Tsiaras: OLAF Audits to Blame for OPEKEPE Delays

Minister of Rural Development, Kostas Tsiaras, linked the delays in OPEKEPE payments to audits by OLAF, the European Anti-Fraud Office. Mr. Tsiaras stated that OPEKEPE is in a state of "operational readiness" for subsidy payments, but OLAF's presence is causing temporary difficulties.

According to the minister, OLAF is at OPEKEPE and continuing investigations initiated by the European Public Prosecutor's Office. Mr. Tsiaras mentioned that there may be issues that the Organization needs to identify and highlight. He assured that the necessary checks have been carried out by OPEKEPE and AADE, and they are ready to start payments for old organic farming, agriculture, and beekeeping.

Referring to the findings of the audits in the new organic program, Mr. Tsiaras described them as "extreme," with more than 50% of the sampled audits found to be outside the program. He also mentioned the suspension of the operating license of several certification bodies and the voluntary withdrawals of producers from organic programs.

Regarding sheep pox, Mr. Tsiaras explained that it is a difficult animal disease and the Ministry is following the European directive. He announced a regulation for the suspension of tax and insurance obligations for farmers who have lost their animals.