Green Party MP Charalambos Theopemptou proposes measures to support them in facing the promoted EU policies and challenges.
Mr. Theopemptou believes that for farmers to survive amid rising energy costs, inflation, climate change, unfair competition, and new EU policies, the Cypriot government must implement measures, including the following:
Operation of regional farmers’ markets, exclusion of traders from urban markets, enrichment with other goods (handicrafts, local foods), enforcement of legislation against unfair trade competition, promotion of the “Buy Cypriot” policy, utilization of treated wastewater, government procurement of organic products (for military, hospitals, etc.).
In detail, the Green Party MP notes the following:
- Farmers have long requested the establishment of regional farmers’ markets, particularly at strategic points leading to cities.
- City markets should have increased presence and exclude traders.
- Specialized markets regularly held in all cities (e.g., jewelry, handicrafts, food, and “Food Markets”) significantly boost farmers’ incomes and that of the youth in general.
- Legislation against unfair trade competition in agricultural products has been passed but is not being enforced.
- “Buy Cypriot”: No effort has been made by the government to assist producers in promoting and labeling Cypriot products.
- Green Contracts: State procurement of organic products through bidding processes. However, despite legislation for cooperatives, the government hasn’t helped producers of tomatoes, vegetables, etc., to organize. So, when a hospital tendered for organic products, no organic producer could bid due to insufficient quantities.
- Water: Our sewage systems produce large amounts of treated wastewater, which could be easily used in agriculture. However, much of it is wasted, whereas the government should construct storage tanks and pipelines to deliver water to farmers for cultivation, e.g., livestock feed production.
- Grazing: The problem of wild herbs near forested areas and the risk of fire could be solved by paying shepherds to graze their animals on specific routes, as done abroad. This benefits both forests and shepherds.
- Continuous education of farmers on new techniques and organic farming, facilitation of food production by small businesses due to restrictive HCCP provisions. Also, low-interest loans, direct sales platforms from farmers to consumers, installation of photovoltaic panels, and support for Energy Communities. Additionally, provision of soil improvement compost and much more.
- The new EU directive known as the “Breakfast Directive” could help if properly implemented. Public awareness is needed, as products like honey, juices, jams, etc., should have clear labeling indicating country of origin and nutritional information.
Mr. Theopemptou suggests that all the above measures are almost cost-free and only require interest to be shown for specific actions to be taken.
He notes warnings that after 2030, difficult times are coming for food production, requiring organization from all stakeholders, not just farmers, but also consumers.
Regarding farmers’ primary reaction to the EU, Mr. Theopemptou observes it focuses on the Farm to Fork policy, which is part of the Green Deal.
The policy aims, as stated by the Green Party MP, for a fairer distribution of food production profits, healthier foods, and environmentally friendly practices.
Key provisions include:
- Reducing the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and antibiotics.
- Increasing organic production.
- Improving animal welfare conditions on farms.
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities and protecting agriculture from climate change.
- Measures to increase farmers’ incomes as compensation.
Mr. Theopemptou notes that reducing pesticide use triggers the most reactions, as farmers believe it will greatly limit their production and thus their incomes.
This reaction was anticipated in EU discussions, leading to provisions for income increase measures for farmers, though it seems these have not been implemented or supported sufficiently, a situation also applicable in Cyprus.
