According to the president of the farmers’ association, Nicos Vasilas, most of the 1,500 families involved who produce potatoes in Cyprus are unable to pay their operating loans. These farmers plant between 30 and 50 hectares (1 hectare = 2.47 acres) and generally employ four to five workers, mostly immigrants, every season to prepare seed potatoes, plant, and harvest.

Potatoes have traditionally been the main export crop of this island nation. Prior to Cyprus joining the European Union (EU) the harvest was collected and marketed by a government board.

The farmers said they have been paid little, or nothing in some cases, for last year’s crop. Vasilas said they have received no EU subsidies either. “We want financial assistance from the government to pay our debts, and assistance for those who want to stop farming, so this can be done with dignity and without debts to the banks.”

Cypriot potato farmers have staged similar protests each of the past three years. Despite getting some help each time, their indebtedness is ballooning. “Things are more difficult since Cyprus joined the EU last year,” Vasilas said.  
 
 
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