Government unveils €610.9m livestock sector recovery plan after disease outbreak

Nicosia, Cyprus. The government on Friday presented a 12-year plan worth about €610.9 million to rebuild the livestock sector after a foot and mouth disease outbreak led to the culling of more than 84,000 animals. The proposals were prepared by a scientific committee headed by Stavros Malas and presented to stakeholders at the presidential palace.

Outbreak impact and compensation

Malas said the outbreak had exposed existing problems in the sector rather than created them, adding that livestock farming could not simply return to its pre-crisis state.

Committee figures showed that 104 sheep and goat units lost 56,632 animals, while 14 cattle units lost 3,018 animals. Three pig farms lost 24,483 animals.

Compensation paid to farmers so far totals €17,288,069, including advance payments and support for lost milk and feed. The average payment was €206 per sheep or goat, €1,636 per cow and €111 per pig, Malas said.

Rebuilding measures

Sheep and goat farming would receive the largest share of funding, €372.225 million, with the aim of doubling milk production within 12 years through improved breeding and management rather than an increase in livestock numbers.

A further €134 million is allocated to cattle farming, where the committee proposes a smaller but more productive herd, 50 new units and greater investment in beef production.

Biosecurity and fencing measures would receive €41 million, while €63.7 million is earmarked for scientific and technical support, including genetic testing.