«From the very first moment we said there is a problem in the agricultural sector. How are problems solved? If we sit down for dialogue. The government took positive steps to show that farmers’ problems concern them. They could very easily, with the government’s positive disposition, find themselves at the dialogue table» stated among other things Kostas Tsiaras regarding the farmer protests, which continue.
Tsiaras: Farmers who said “yes” to dialogue became targets of bullying from colleagues
The Minister of Agricultural Development speaking Tuesday morning (30/12) on OREN, referring to the 18 roadblocks that expressed intention for dialogue, said that «when they returned, we knew there was pressure from some who didn’t want dialogue. From what we understand, the people who said they wanted dialogue to happen became targets of bullying from their colleagues»
He added that: «when they themselves say we will stay at the roadblocks until the government falls, then they declare their political objective». The minister also requested «that there be, even at the last moment, a more serious approach from the farmers».
Referring to agricultural electricity rates he said that: «now it’s 9.3 cents per kilowatt hour and we’ve said it will be significantly lower. There’s a discussion with DEH because there’s a rule that says I can’t give below cost because it triggers a European competition alarm».
Concluding, Kostas Tsiaras said: «Everything must be viewed through the lens of common sense and European regulations» adding that «some of the 16 demands can be discussed further. However, we can’t say that OPEKEPE shouldn’t be integrated into AADE or that the energy exchange should be abolished, but income can be supported».
