The collection of data on the impact of the storm on farms is nearing completion

On Friday, the Ministry of Agriculture is expecting final figures from local authorities on the impact on farmers of the storm that swept across the country in August.

Local authorities were required to submit information on farmers’ claims for compensation by 11 September. Once the data has been received, a decision will be made on whether to submit a request for additional support to the European Commission.

As reported by BNS, Minister Kęstutis Mažeika stated on Thursday that the losses suffered by farmers as a result of the storm that raged almost three weeks ago are still being calculated, but are expected to amount to “several tens of millions”.

Following his proposal, the Government declared a national state of emergency on 26 August, which allows for more effective coordination of aid measures and exempts farmers from support reductions or other sanctions for commitments they were unable to fulfil due to the extreme circumstances.

According to the minister, the declaration of a state of emergency has opened up the possibility for Lithuania to apply for European support. If an application is submitted to the European Commission by October, compensation for the damage suffered could reach farmers as early as the first quarter of next year.