Livestock farmers are gearing up to make vital decisions regarding their future if President Nikos Christodoulides does not respond to their meeting request by the end of Monday. The newly formed association, known as ‘The Voice of Livestock Farmers’, represents those affected by the mass culling measures implemented in response to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Cyprus.
With around 200 members, the association expressed its urgency last Wednesday, seeking a meeting with the President to discuss critical issues impacting the sector. Spokesperson Stella Petrou highlighted the necessity of addressing the management of foot-and-mouth disease, as the farmers face the harsh realities of culling.
Foot-and-mouth disease: Seeking Alternatives to Mass Culling
The association’s demands are clear: they advocate for an emergency vaccination strategy wherever scientifically feasible, rather than resorting to immediate culling. They also propose a mandatory second laboratory test before any culling decision, allowing for independent confirmation of results. Additionally, they suggest implementing targeted isolation measures instead of blanket culling of entire herds.
Recent Meetings and Government Response
A delegation from the association met with Stavros Malas, the Head of the Special Scientific Committee for the Reconstruction and Upgrading of the Livestock Sector, on Saturday. Petrou reported that the delegation was briefed on the current measures being taken to contain the disease, as well as plans for restoring livestock numbers after the virus is eliminated. However, she noted that there was no flexibility in straying from the European protocol measures already in place.
Impact on Farmers and Compensation Issues
As Petrou pointed out, the immediate focus for the association is not on restoring livestock numbers, which is considered a long-term issue, but on the pressing matters of culling and compensation. Many farmers are struggling to navigate the extensive documentation required to apply for compensation, adding to their distress during this challenging time.
Current Situation in Cyprus
As of Monday morning, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment reported no new positive cases beyond the 110 previously announced. The last update indicated two new cases identified in sheep and goat units in Athienou, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by the disease.
