As a result of the recent forest fires, it has been reported that a total of 4000 acres of land and, thus, 1000 tons of barley and wheat, along with many hours of labor and hope, have been reduced to ashes. I think it is time to question whether the manufacturers will be compensated for within the context of insurance. In the editorial corner of Cyprus Newspaper dated May 22, 2020, this issue has been handled in detail, and at the same time, I think that from this moment, the coverage, prices, and premiums of the General Agricultural Insurance Fund should be addressed.
Will the price of barley and wheat be paid to the producer having burned down so close to harvest time? This is the question, and it should be answered. So what should be done? In my opinion, Agriculture and Livestock Insurances should be opened to the PRIVATE INSURANCE SECTOR immediately. In many countries, primarily in Turkey, agriculture and livestock are covered by private insurance, and they are able to sell insurance policy regarding this matter. In addition, there are insurance companies whose sole focus is agricultural insurance, where reinsurance is also made. Our farmers should be able to insure their crops against the risks of natural disasters, such as frost, hail, and fires. The producer must be given the opportunity to insure by paying a price. The TRNC Agricultural Insurance Fund should be completely eliminated and handed over to the private sector. Foreign Branch Insurance Companies and Centers operating in the TRNC should ensure that our insurance companies operating in European Union countries operate only in the fields of Agriculture and Livestock. In addition, it should be ensured that insurance companies in the TRNC operating mostly within the public sphere organize their activities in line with the needs within this field.
Humbly declared to the TRNC Government and its Respected Public.