The livestock sector on the island of Lesvos is at a “critical point,” the agricultural development division of the Greek Left Alliance (EL.AS.) said, accusing the government of “5.5 months of inaction” following a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.
In a statement, EL.AS. called for immediate measures to support livestock farmers, citing the economic and psychological exhaustion they described during a meeting of the Regional Council.
According to the political group, some farmers broke down in tears during the meeting as they described the impact of the crisis on their livelihoods and well-being.
Criticism of the deputy minister
EL.AS. also criticized the deputy minister responsible for the issue, who participated in the Regional Council meeting by video conference.
The group claimed that the minister “hid behind the ‘lack of signal'” to avoid answering questions and taking responsibility. It said he announced that he would return to Lesvos on September 6.
EL.AS. further claimed that until then, inspections and animal slaughtering would be “frozen,” accusing the government of leaving the management of the animal health crisis unresolved.
The group also disputed government figures on slaughterhouse capacity, saying the Agriculture Ministry refers to three operating slaughterhouses on Lesvos while, according to EL.AS., only one is actually functioning.
Thousands of sheep and goats awaiting slaughter
A major issue raised by EL.AS. is the need to manage 35,000 lambs and 25,000 nonproductive sheep, which it says need to be sent for slaughter.
The political group claims the government has prohibited the slaughter and sale of these animals in other parts of Greece and abroad.
It also says the government has cited the consequences of a possible vaccination program, arguing that vaccination would prevent carcasses from being exported from the island.
What EL.AS. is demanding
EL.AS.’s agricultural development division is calling for the immediate reopening of all slaughterhouses on Lesvos under full veterinary supervision.
It is also demanding a solution for the island’s 60,000 sheep and goats, full compensation for affected farmers, emergency financial support for animal feed and lost income, and a binding operational plan for the overall management of the animal disease.
“The tears of livestock farmers will not be treated as just another image that will be forgotten,” the statement said, describing the situation as the result of “5.5 months of government abandonment.”
EL.AS. said its broader proposals for supporting agricultural production and rebuilding rural areas will be presented as part of its program at the Thessaloniki International Fair.
