Greece to compensate farmers affected by devastating wildfires

The Greek government has announced a support package for farmers, livestock producers, households, and businesses affected by the recent wildfires in Western Attica and Boeotia. The measures are aimed at speeding up damage assessments and compensation payments for those affected.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the state agricultural insurance organization ELGA has been instructed to begin compensation payments to farmers and livestock producers whose farms and agricultural facilities were damaged by the fires.

In addition to support for the agricultural sector, the government will introduce a range of financial relief measures for affected households and businesses. These include a six-month deferral of tax and social security payments, as well as a 12-month suspension of debt enforcement procedures.

Employees of businesses forced to suspend operations because of the wildfires will receive state support of €534 per month for up to three months. The measure is intended to preserve jobs and support household incomes until business activity resumes.

The government also plans to digitalize and significantly accelerate the procedures for submitting damage claims and receiving compensation. According to the prime minister, the necessary legislation will be introduced after Parliament reconvenes to ensure faster funding for the reconstruction of damaged homes and agricultural businesses.

Tags: Greece