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European Commission to Audit CAP Payments to Ensure Eligibility of Animals

Published March 2, 2026, 09:10
European Commission to Audit CAP Payments to Ensure Eligibility of Animals

The European Commission will conduct audits to ensure that payments made under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are granted exclusively for eligible and existing animals. The Commission confirmed this through a spokesperson in response to questions regarding the effective implementation of measures related to the national action plan and the Integrated Management and Control System (IMCS) in Greece. The audits will focus on the implementation of the action plan adopted by the Greek authorities, aiming to improve the IMCS. The Commission will assess whether these measures adequately address the existing weaknesses of the system. The plan, now implemented by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), includes the creation of a new digital map, new ways of recording sheep and goats with electronic 'bolts', more controls and tools to verify land ownership. According to an AADE document, grazing rights remain in force, while payments continue to be made in areas where the rules are not followed. The Commission does not comment on matters relating to the investigation by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) regarding OPKEPE staff.