Speaking on Politis Radio 107.6 and 97.6 during the programme Proini Epitheorisi, the president of the Pancyprian Pig Farmers Association, Petros Kailas, described a climate of serious concern following new cases of foot-and-mouth disease in pig farms in the Nicosia district.
Unclear transmission of the disease
Regarding the transmission of the disease to two pig farms in Kokkinotrimithia, Mr Kailas said there is still no clear picture and that only estimates are currently being made. As he explained, no direct movement between pig units has been recorded, while suspicions are focusing on the transport of lambs and kids during the holiday period, which appear to have tested positive for the virus.
Referring to the emergence of a second case in Paliometocho, he described the development as “unfortunately expected”. According to Mr Kailas, three pig farms operate in the area and belong to three brothers, with limited distances between them, which significantly increases the risk of transmission.
He also clarified that he does not consider the proposal to halt the culling of animals due to foot-and-mouth disease to be realistic. He added that more than 95 per cent of pigs in the three- and ten-kilometre protection zones have already been vaccinated, with additional vaccine supplies expected.
Concerns over pork market prices
Regarding the pork market, Mr Kailas assured that no shortage of pork is expected. However, he stressed that prices are currently below production cost, creating serious market distortions that may disadvantage producers.
He also warned that many livestock farmers may not proceed with rebuilding their units due to the uncertainty affecting the sector. Even with compensation, he said, it is extremely difficult for a farmer to re-establish a livestock unit.
According to Mr Kailas, the core problem is uncertainty, noting that it is “only a matter of time” before the disease reappears, since the same control measures are not applied in the occupied areas.
Planned protests this week
At the same time, Mr Kailas said that a group of livestock farmers is expected to organise protests on Thursday and Friday, including road blockades at the Rizoelia roundabout as well as at Larnaca airport and the port of Larnaca.
The decision is linked to the presence in Cyprus of heads of state from European Union member states and other senior officials for a summit taking place in the country.
Mr Kailas clarified that the Pancyprian Pig Farmers Association will not participate in these particular protests.
