Nicosia, Cyprus. Farmers in Cyprus raised concerns about a foot-and-mouth outbreak, warning it could seriously affect the sector and the production of halloumi. A coordinating committee urged coordinated action to stop the disease spreading.
Committee calls for coordinated response
The goat- and sheepherders’ coordinating committee said on Tuesday that it was not the time to place blame, but to take collective and coordinated action to stop the spread of the disease, which it said was threatening livestock.
The committee said that if a large part of livestock was lost, the commercial course of halloumi could be affected and the lives of farmers and those involved in producing and supplying the cheese could be disrupted. It added that responsibilities for the situation should be sought after the danger had passed.
Requests for measures and support
The committee said it hoped the Veterinary Services, in cooperation with other authorities, would ensure a comprehensive, targeted and clear package of measures was implemented, based on EU regulations and experience.
It added that the state had a duty to support those affected financially and psychologically, based on the true value of each animal lost.
Concerns over negligence and public accusations
The committee deplored negligence or conscious violations of the law which it said led to the spread of the disease from the north to the south, and called for justice.
It also said it was unacceptable for farmers to be blamed through the media and said they should not be used as scapegoats.
Guidance to farmers
The committee called on farmers to adhere to measures set by the Veterinary Services, including proper fences, disinfection of all vehicles and individuals entering and exiting a farm, the use of personal protective equipment by visitors, supplying farms with animal feed from approved sources, and regularly cleaning and disinfecting farms.
Farmers were also urged to notify the Veterinary Services if any disease was suspected.
What steps are you taking to follow Veterinary Services measures and report suspected disease on your farm?
