Commission: €43.1 million in support for Greek farmers affected by natural disasters
Proposal for the direct support of Greek and Slovenian farmers who were affected by natural disasters presented by European Commission (Commission).
Of the total amount of 51.7 million euros, which will come from the agricultural reserve 2024, 43.1 million euros will be allocated to Greece and 8.6 million euros to Slovenia.
The amounts presented take into account the agricultural damage estimates from Slovenia and Greece, together with the respective weight of these two countries in the agricultural sector of the European Union, with based on their shares in direct CAP payments. In addition, the need to maintain sufficient resources in the agricultural reserve to address possible crises during the remaining months of 2023 and 2024 was also considered.
The national authorities of Greece and Slovenia will distribute aid directly to farmers to compensate for financial losses, while payments are expected to be made by 31 May 2024. Both countries should communicate to the Commission the implementation details, including the criteria for calculating the aid, the intended impact of the measure, the evaluation and the measures taken to avoid distortions of competition and overcompensation. The two countries can supplement this EU support. up to 200% with national resources.
The draft measure of the Commission
The Commission’s draft measure, including the principles and methodology for granting support, will be discussed in a transparent manner with the Member States, who will vote on the implementing regulation at a meeting of the Commission for the Common Organization of Agricultural Markets on 30 November. Once approved it will enter into force quickly, so that the national administrations of Greece and Slovenia can implement it without delay.
In June 2023, the Commission allocated 15.8 million euros and 1.2 million euros to Greece and Slovenia respectively. These funds came from the 2023 agricultural reserve, which aims to support member states affected by adverse climate events and macroeconomic challenges in the period up to 31 January 2024.
The support of Slovenia and Greece in adapting to climate change and preventing risks is a key priority of the Cohesion Policy programs 2014/20 and 2021/27.
For the period 2014/20, Greece allocated €325 million for investments related to climate change adaptation measures and risks and in the current program period, it committed an additional €727 million specifically for flood risk prevention and management.
Member States can also apply for funding through the European Union Solidarity Fund based on a damage assessment submitted within 12 weeks of the date of the first damage. Both Slovenia and Greece have submitted their applications for EUTF support, which are currently being assessed by the Commission.