**Farmers’ Views Sought Ahead of Policy Revision**
In a proactive effort to enhance agricultural policies in Cyprus, Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis announced on Saturday that his ministry is seeking input from farmers across the country. This initiative comes as part of a broader revision of agricultural policy, with a particular focus on strengthening the primary sector.
During a visit to the Deryneia farmers’ market, Senekis emphasized the importance of engaging with producers and agricultural organizations to gather their insights and needs. “Our goal is to listen to our producers and agricultural organisations so that we can shape the positions and proposals we will put forward ahead of the revision of the new agricultural policy,” he stated.
The minister highlighted the significance of farmers' markets, such as the one in Deryneia, which facilitate direct interactions between producers and consumers. He noted that these markets not only provide a platform for farmers to sell their goods but also contribute to boosting their income while potentially lowering prices for consumers. “We believe that through this direct contact we boost producers’ income while also reducing the final price for consumers,” Senekis explained.
In addition to discussing market dynamics, Senekis addressed the critical issue of water scarcity, which has been a persistent challenge for the agricultural sector. He reported that, compared to previous years, the current year has seen relatively favorable conditions regarding water availability. “This year we had a relatively good water year. Of course, planning is under way to ensure sufficient water supplies for the coming years,” he remarked. The minister assured that evaluations are ongoing to determine the immediate future water supply needs, indicating a commitment to addressing this vital resource for agriculture.
As the ministry prepares for the revision of agricultural policy, the input from farmers will be crucial in shaping effective strategies that meet the evolving needs of the sector. The emphasis on direct communication and support for local markets reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the agricultural landscape in Cyprus.