Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002766/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left)
There has been a particularly strong re-emergence of sheep pox and goat pox in Greece, mainly in Thessaly, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Chalkidiki and Fokida. As a result of this crisis, tens of thousands of animals have been killed, extensive areas have been placed under quarantine, animal movements have been prohibited, slaughterhouse operations have been suspended and livestock farmers, especially pastoral farmers, have seen their incomes plummet.
This all takes place in a broader context of lack of prevention, inadequate checks on imports from non-EU countries (in particular the Balkans) and understaffing of veterinary services. This new combination of factors comes on top of a series of natural disasters (Cyclone Ianos, storms Daniel and Elias), which have already placed considerable strain on livestock farming in the Greek region, which is now under threat of total collapse, with wider consequences for the agri-food sector, landscape conservation, the local economy and national livestock production.
In view of the seriousness of the situation, will the Commission say:
- 1.Does it intend to activate European mechanisms for affected Greek farmers?
- 2.Does it intend to strengthen monitoring, checks and veterinary care, particularly in border regions, through animal health protection programmes?
- 3.Does it consider that pastoral livestock farming – as a form of sustainable and extensive farming – requires specific support under the new CAP and the EU’s mountain and rural policies?
Submitted: 8.7.2025