Lapid announces drought year, compensation for farmers

Finance Minister Yair Lapid declared 2014 as an official drought year on Sunday. The announcement comes into effect as of today and will grant farmers in the affected areas compensation for the loss of product as a result of the lack of rainfall.

The compensation will be given to agricultural producers of wheat, barley, clover, peas, ful, chickpeas, canola, and oats. Estimates place the compensation amount at near 10 million shekels – a relatively low figure compared to previous droughts. (Avital Lahav)