Culling crisis deepens as farmers warn 'no animals will be left'

Back to square one... Llvestock farmers plan to resubmit their original request to the government, asking that animals not infected with foot and mouth disease in affected units not be culled. It is worth noting that the EU firmly rejected this request about a month ago during the visit to Cyprus by Oliver Várhelyi, European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare.

According to information obtained by “K,” agricultural organizations are expected in the coming days to submit a memorandum to President Christodoulides, once again requesting that only infected animals be culled. At the same time, they will ask the President to contact the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to relay this request. Through the memorandum, they are also expected to raise the issue of different handling in the occupied areas. This is a major concern for those affected, who believe it is hindering efforts to contain and eliminate the virus.

The number of infected units has now reached triple digits, and cases of the virus have also been detected at a second pig farm in Paliometocho. The situation appears to have slipped out of the authorities’ control. According to a knowledgeable source who spoke to “K,” even if officials claim the situation is under control, that is not the case. Following this development, those affected believe it is time to move to a Plan B. This is why they are again calling for only infected animals to be culled. As the same source put it, “In the end, no animals will be left.”

They warn of stronger measures

The latest epidemiological findings have triggered strong reactions from livestock farmers, who held a protest on Sunday outside the Ministry of Agriculture. Their main demand is to stop the mass culling of animals. At the same time, they describe confusion in how the situation is being managed and in the level of compensation.

“In the end, no animals will be left.”

Farmers expressed frustration and concern, criticizing authorities for the lack of a clear plan. “Who will cover the costs for young farmers?” asked livestock farmer Stella Petrou, voicing deep concern about the future. “They are slaughtering, killing, and discarding animals without a plan,” she said. Regarding government compensation, Ms. Petrou added that the figures change daily and no one knows what amount they will actually receive.

They also submitted a memorandum to the Director of Veterinary Services, Christodoulos Pipis, and warned of stronger action next Thursday ahead of the Informal European Council to be held in Cyprus. Agricultural organizations, however, will not take part in the protest.

Suspicions of political motives

Some observers see political motives behind the protest. A source told “K” that individuals from certain political parties and movements were present, just one month before the elections. At the same time, there are concerns that demonstrations could become another source of virus transmission.

Compensation not yet agreed upon

Talks over compensation are ongoing, as the Ministry of Agriculture and livestock farmers have not yet agreed on final amounts. The Ministry has consulted the Agricultural Research Institute to help determine indicative pricing. According to available information, compensation for sheep and goat farming currently stands at €260, with an additional €60 planned if producers resume operations, bringing the total to €320 per animal. For cows, the government intends to offer €1,750. The market value of cows aged 2 to 5 years ranges from €1,500 to €2,500 depending on age. These figures are still under discussion, and no final agreement has been reached.

Compensation will cover:

• Animals
• Lost income
• Feed, milk, and related costs