The Ministry of Agriculture, its political head Maria Panayiotou and the Veterinary Services are facing mounting criticism as the Republic of Cyprus attempts to limit the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. Although the competent authorities were aware since last December of confirmed cases in the north, the measures taken were reportedly limited to a formal announcement with instructions to farmers, without substantive preventive steps.
Livestock farmers, speaking before the House of Representatives, alleged that no further mobilisation took place. As a result, they argue, the situation is now unfolding under pressure, with delayed decisions and insufficient preparation.
Absence From Parliamentary Session
Amid growing frustration among livestock farmers, who are seeking accountability and clear answers, the absence of Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou from the House of Representatives further intensified criticism.
Although she had been invited to attend the extraordinary session of the House Environment Committee, she chose instead to visit the coordination centre and sent the ministry’s Director General to appear before committee members and affected farmers.
Presidential Support For Veterinary Services
In an attempt to ease tensions, President Nikos Christodoulides defended the handling of the Veterinary Services, stating that specific measures had been taken since December.
However, these statements were not accompanied by detailed information addressing allegations of inadequate preparedness.
Early Notification And Coordination Concerns
Particular weight is attached to statements by Leonidas Fylaktou, co chair of the Bi communal Health Committee, who said that the authorities of the Republic had been informed from the outset.
According to Mr Fylaktou, meetings were held and decisions were taken regarding the provision of vaccines. Nevertheless, he stated that he was not invited to any meeting convened by the Ministry of Agriculture, raising questions over coordination.
Reactions From DISY And AKEL
The Democratic Rally party issued a statement referring to delays and failure to take timely decisions, noting that its warnings since January had not been heeded. The party called for accountability and a full investigation into the implementation of relevant protocols.
The Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, AKEL MP Giannakis Gavriel, was particularly critical, stating that instead of immediate support for affected livestock farmers, the government opted to involve police authorities, while instructions remain unclear and responsible officials are absent.
AKEL Secretary General Stefanos Stefanou is expected to attend a meeting in Aradippou today and to assure those affected that the party will seek their immediate support.
Bi communal Committee Decisions On Vaccines
Speaking to “Politis”, Leonidas Fylaktou said that following notification last December, meetings of the Bi communal Health Committee were held and it was decided that 500,000 vaccines originating from the European Union would be delivered to the north.
However, during a meeting on Monday evening, 23 February, a request was made by the Republic of Cyprus for the return of 20,000 vaccines. According to Mr Fylaktou, of the 500,000 vaccines, the Greek Cypriot side requested 20,000 doses. Ten thousand are expected to be delivered today and the remaining 10,000 next week.
Claims By Turkish Cypriot Official
At the same time, the Turkish Cypriot “minister of agriculture”, Huseyin Cavus, stated yesterday that he had repeatedly informed and warned the Cypriot authorities since December about the risk following the detection of cases in the north.
He further suggested that the seriousness of the situation had been underestimated by the authorities of the Republic.