Tsiaras: We order inspections and those being inspected ‘disappear’

"Those subject to inspections under organic farming programmes avoid inspections and then 'disappear'," revealed Rural Development and Food Minister Kostas Tsiaras said on Monday, in an interview with the public broadcaster ERT, while adding that inspections are continuing as normal.

Specifically, Tsiaras stressed that extensive inspections are underway for organic farming subsidies and eco-schemes, carried out through ELGO (Hellenic Farming Organisation) and the relevant departments of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food.

The minister further revealed that "huge numbers" have pulled out of organic beekeeping and organic livestock farming, noting those due to be inspected "disappear" when audits begin by the competent authorities — something he described as a "major issue."

He also reminded that he has personally ordered that payments for organic beekeeping and organic livestock farming be suspended.

At the same time, he sent a message of zero tolerance for illegal subsidies from OPEKEPE, making it clear that everyone will have to return the money.

"Everyone will face criminal liability, and that is a crystal clear position," he added.

He also reiterated that the Prime Minister's political mandate is clear: to restore the credibility of OPEKEPE and put an end to a lack of transparency lasting decades.

In conclusion, the Minister of Rural Development noted that from the very first moment Kyriakos Mitsotakis called him to assign him the responsibilities of Minister of Rural Development and Food, the directive was clear: "to clean up the image of OPEKEPE."

As he said this is the political initiative, this is the political will, "and this is the message we have conveyed in every direction."