Time of parting - farmers' protests during an agreement

Tensions remain in the agriculture sector. While some farmers are signing an agreement with the government, other farmers are again blocking roads across the country.

Key road sections are expected to be blocked again today, February 12.

The agreement, which was finalised last night, provides for the division of farms into three categories - depending on their size - and payment of an annual rate per decare, with the money to be transferred in two tranches. The smallest farms will not have to prove losses for the year, but the requirement for medium and large farms will remain.

Implementation of legislative initiatives is also included in the agreement. However, some in the industry are not happy and see it as a betrayal. 26 farming organisations that disagree with the policy being pursued in the agriculture sector will also submit a statement detailing their demands.

They are also demanding the resignation of Agriculture Minister Kiril Vatev. In an attempt to quell tensions, he has invited two of the protesting organisations to a meeting at the ministry. And after last night's meeting, Vatev stressed that he was ready for dialogue.