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Publishers Abstract:
Between 2007 and 2008, a succession of adverse weather conditions, together with damage caused by crop diseases, resulted in a considerable reduction in Greece's agricultural production. There are around 860,000 farmers in Greece, an impressive number for a country with an active population of around 5 million. Given these numbers and given the proximity of a general election, it is perhaps unsurprising that when, in early 2009, farmers took their tractors to the streets demanding to be compensated, the Government acceded to their demands. Shortly after, when compensation was paid out, the Commission registered it as unlawful aid and decided to initiate the formal investigation procedure under Article 108(2) TFEU. After hearing the application, the President of the General Court decided to grant interim relief. As a result, until the General Court delivers its judgment on the action, Greece is not required to recover the payments made to farmers.
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