Delayed payments from EU funds have driven Greek farmers into the streets

Greek farmers clashed with police on Sunday during protests in the central and northern regions over delays in the payment of European Union farm subsidies. The delay is the result of an investigation into a corruption scandal that is rocking the country.

Hundreds of farmers took to the streets and blocked roads with their tractors in several areas to protest against the conservative government over an estimated shortfall of around EUR 600 million in European aid and other payments.

Near the central Greek town of Nikaia, police used tear gas against demonstrators who tried to break through police roadblocks, a witness told Reuters.

Payment delays are rocking the country amid an investigation into a scandal in which some farmers allegedly falsified ownership of land and livestock to obtain EU farm subsidies.

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), which investigates crimes against the EU's financial interests, said earlier this year it had found evidence that Greek farmers, with the help of state officials, had illegally obtained European money.

Separate investigations have been launched by the Greek authorities and Parliament is examining the government agency there, which distributes around €2.5 billion of European funds to hundreds of thousands of farmers each year.

The government, which has promised transparency, has admitted that the first instalment of EU subsidies is lower than last year and that more than 40 thousand farmers' applications are currently under scrutiny.

(reuters, hal)