Portugal ties wildfire farm aid to damage assessment speed

Agriculture Minister José Manuel Fernandes said support for farmers hit by wildfires in northern Portugal will depend on fire size, damage extent and how quickly data is gathered. Aid notices for Valpaços and Vouzela will proceed this month, covering losses above 30% of a farm, with 100% coverage up to €10,000 and 50% up to €400,000. A separate, faster state scheme can cover losses under 30%, up to €15,000. The minister ruled out extending application deadlines but did not rule out a new call. Other fire-hit areas, including Boticas, Torre de Moncorvo and Vinhais, may also get support depending on their scale.