Alexis Tsipras urges aid for Lesbos livestock farmers amid animal disease crisis

Greek opposition leader Alexis Tsipras visited the island of Lesbos and held a meeting with local livestock farmers and representatives of the coordinating bodies. He described the situation as “existential” and called primary agricultural production a national issue and a patriotic duty.

Tsipras criticized the government for refusing vaccination, failing to follow EU rules and providing inadequate compensation for dead animals and destroyed feed. He demanded changes to the terms of agricultural re‑establishment, the creation of a Farmers’ Chamber, a National Council for Agricultural Production, a convergence fund for primary and secondary sectors, and the relocation of the Ministry of Rural Development to Thessaloniki or Larissa. He also warned that without support the island could face further depopulation.

Farmers echoed fears of losing their herds, lack of veterinary assistance, and the broader social impact on families, including children preparing for national exams under stressful conditions.