Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-002152/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)
Widespread irregularities and fraudulent government practices have been noted since 2005 in the management of direct payments through OPEKEPE. The practices are now being formally investigated by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), under threat of loss of accreditation.
Following the revelations, the Government decided to abolish the Agency and transfer the critical payment and audit functions to the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR). This choice raises serious questions regarding the management accreditation of the new body, the transparency of CAP payments and compliance with Regulation (EU) 2021/2116 on the financing, management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy, and in particular Articles 7 and 8 which set out the conditions for accreditation of paying agencies, the obligation of independence and sufficient operational and administrative capacity and the possible withdrawal of accreditation if the criteria are not met.
Unfortunately, the withdrawal of accreditation will clearly mean the cessation of agricultural payments and the loss of European fund management for our farmers. At the same time, concerns about a cover up of political responsibilities and, ultimately, a lack of accountability are growing.
In view of the above:
- 1.Has the Commission assessed the legality of the transfer of OPEKEPE’s responsibilities to the IAPR?
- 2.Has the Commission asked itself/established whether the conditions for management accreditation to disburse European aid are met by the IAPR?
- 3.What measures does it intend to put in place from now on to ensure the independence, transparency and sound management of aid to Greek farmers?
Submitted: 28.5.2025