Lesvos livestock crisis: MEP seeks EU support for African Swine Fever

European Parliament Member Kostas Arvanitis has submitted a formal inquiry to the European Commission regarding the impact of African Swine Fever on Greek livestock, specifically on the island of Lesvos. Arvanitis, representing The Left and SYRIZA, highlighted the severe losses in livestock capital and production affecting the local economy, including dairy, dairy products, and meat markets.

The inquiry seeks clarification on whether the Greek government has officially requested the activation of EU support mechanisms. Specifically, Arvanitis cited Article 78a of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 regarding crisis payments for farmers and Article 220 of Regulation (EU) 1308/2013, which allows for emergency market support co-financed by the EU.

Furthermore, the MEP emphasized the importance of the ‘Lesvos sheep breed’ and asked if Greek authorities have requested exemptions from mandatory culling for animals of high genetic value, as permitted under EU regulations. The request follows Arvanitis’s recent visit to Lesvos to meet with farmers and cooperatives affected by the epidemic.