1.2.13
Farmer representatives explained that they are patiently awaiting a solution to their problems, as they continue to strengthen the road blocks with tractors at various points on the Athens – Thessaloniki high way and in Northern Greece. Ministers of Agricultural Growth A. Tsaftaris and M. Harakopoulos are meeting with the PM at 11pm to discuss the matter.
On Thursday the Minister and Deputy Minister of Agriculture met with Minister of State D. Stamatis at Maximou Hall to discuss some of the farmer demands. Up for discussion is whether early retirement can be extended for two years and overdue loans from the old ATE bank.
There was tension at the Nikea road block in Larissa between farmers and police forces. The farmer attempted once more to approach the new national high way on foot and via tractor. The police tried to stop them chasing them in the surrounding fields, however one group managed to get to the new high way. The farmers, who wanted to hold a meeting on the new high way, eventually caved in and returned to their positions on the old high way.
Beyond Larissa, farmers are gathering their tractors at Lamia, Thebes, Kouloura, Serres, Drama and other villages, mostly in Northern Greece.
