Potato farmers left alone in protest march

The major agricultural organisations representing the interests of farmers decided to stay away from the planned march by potato growers, who insist on descending on the Presidential Palace on Wednesday.

Nicos Vasilas, who is the head of the farmers accused the other agricultural organisations of serving party and self interests, adding that they could be accepting money after it was revealed that no other organisation would join the potato farmers. He told TV reporters that the potato farmers will bring 150 tractors and will continue with the demonstrations until the problem is solved.

The potato farmers are asking for CYP 12 mln in compensation due to a poor harvest as well as benefits to allow them to leave the profession.

The government has so far not agreed to their demands, saying that EU law prohibits direct subsidies, also insisting that state coffers cannot cope with their demands.

The Finance Ministry has estimated that it would take CYP 35 mln to satisfy the money wanted by agricultural groups, including fruit growers and olive harvesters. The government says it will discuss only the agricultural plan that has been drafted and will not be intimidated by their threats.