Nicosia, Cyprus. The environmental movement on Thursday expressed strong concern over the government’s handling of the foot-and-mouth outbreak, warning of risks to livestock farming and the country’s biodiversity and agricultural heritage.
Concerns over culling and wider impacts
The movement said recent images of widespread and uncontrolled animal culling caused strong concern and deep sadness. It said the crisis extends beyond veterinary issues and affects rural life and Cyprus’ natural heritage.
Calls for earlier preventive measures
The movement said preventive measures were not implemented in time, including stricter controls, monitoring of livestock units, and a comprehensive disease-prevention plan.
Requests to authorities
It urged authorities to strengthen farm biosecurity, apply scientifically backed measures to limit the disease, support affected livestock farmers, and take steps to protect Cypriot animal breeds.
How should authorities balance disease control measures with protecting biodiversity and agricultural heritage?
