From 1 March, the company Irrigation Systems Ltd raised the price of water for irrigation pumps from 17% to 300% and explained the increase with higher electricity prices for pumps, repairs and higher wages. In comparison, last year irrigation water per acre was between 40 and 60 euros, and now it is between 350 and 400 euros. 

Because of the high prices, farmers planned a protest, which was postponed pending a decision by the institutions. At a meeting between the farmers and Irrigation Systems, an agreement was reached to seek an option whereby the farms could be assisted. The compensation would be based on an analysis prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture.