The Government’s categorical opposition to a lockdown in the livestock sector was expressed by the Minister of Rural Development and Food, Costas Tsiarasclarifying that such a move would cause huge consequences for the agri -food economy, especially during the corn harvest.
In his interviews, the minister responded to criticism of the management of sheep and goats, categorically rejecting the possibility of implementing a vaccination program at this stage.
Mr. Tsiaras opposed the request for vaccination, quoting three main reasons:
- Lack of scientific documentation: He argued that the available vaccines from third countries have no proven effectiveness, with clinical trials showing that immunity does not exceed 60%.
- European practice: He stressed that no other country in the European Union has adopted vaccination as a measure of treatment.
- Risk for exports: He warned that a “uncertain choice” such as vaccination would put Greek exports at immediate risk, and especially the country’s flagship product, slice.
Support measures and immediate actions
The minister assured that the government is actively supporting the affected farmers, claiming that the allowances given for the animals that were killed were higher than any other European country.
At the same time, he announced the start of a ten -day ‘Entrance Exercise’in which all the Veterinary Services of the Ministry will be found in each area to enhance bio -security measures and create additional disinfection points, with the aim of limiting the virus dispersion.
Finally, Mr. Tsiaras also referred to his resolution OPECEPEstressing that the body now operates with transparency, ending the distortions of the past such as “iconic pastures”, so that the aid ends up in real producers.