Skrekas Questions Farmers’ Intentions: Dialogue or Conflict
Kostas Skrekas, Secretary of the Political Committee of New Democracy, sent clear messages in an interview with SKAI TV regarding the ongoing farmers’ protests, the Mercosur agreement, the shifting political landscape with a possible coalition involving Karystianou and Tsipras, and recent polling data.
Addressing the agricultural mobilizations, Skrekas described the farmers’ stance as “incomprehensible.” He pointed out that the government and Prime Minister Mitsotakis have extended an invitation for honest and productive dialogue since December 6th. “However, when some insist on not attending and continue tactics that paralyze Greece, a fundamental question arises: Do they want solutions or crisis and conflict?” he asked.
Skrékas also criticized violent behavior during protests, stating, “A farmer who picks up a stick, breaks a police patrol car, and risks injuring or causing even greater harm to a police officer cannot then sit down next to the prime minister to discuss. Could this happen in any democratic country?”
His comments reflect the government’s firm stance against protests that disrupt public order while emphasizing its openness to constructive dialogue with farmers willing to engage peacefully.
The highly anticipated meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and a delegation of farmers is about to begin at the Maximou Mansion. Following extensive talks between government officials and agricultural trade unions, 25 farmers will have one-on-one discussions with the prime minister to address pressing issues in the primary sector and explore possible solutions.
Notably, the group includes representatives from the “hard” blockade factions in Thessaly, who until recently had supported escalating protests. The farmers attending represent various associations from across the country, including presidents and vice-presidents of agricultural cooperatives and unions, young farmers, and livestock producers affected by recent biosecurity measures.
The attending farmers include Anastasios Lioliopoulos, President of the Association of Agricultural Producers of Alexandria; Diamantopoulos Adamantios, President of the Pancerraikos Agricultural Association; Balukas Dimitris, President of the Pan-Thessalian Federation of Cattle Breeders; and others from regions such as Lamia, Magnesia, Crete, and Thessaly.
The government’s stance remains firm: dialogue will not occur under the pressure of roadblocks or protests. Officials emphasized the measures already announced to support farmers, including rural electricity discounts, payments totaling 3.8 billion euros, and the return of VAT. They also stated that individuals facing criminal charges or involved in violent incidents will be excluded from the talks.
Reports suggest the government may consider additional support measures, such as further adjustments to rural electricity costs and possible capital compensation for alfalfa (clover) producers through de minimis aid.
Meanwhile, Costa Anestidis, president of the Farmers’ Association Kyminon, announced that farmers plan to partially block roads near Thessaloniki, including a 1.5-hour closure at Malgara’s exit and a 2.5-hour closure at the city entrance. Farmers from Thessaly’s blockade faction intend to keep national and bypass roads closed during the prime minister’s meeting.
This meeting marks a critical moment in the ongoing dialogue between the government and the agricultural sector amid growing tensions and demands for concrete solutions.
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