Filenews 29 January 2023
The Ministry of Agriculture, in an announcement on the feeding of stray cats and the public debate that is developing around this issue, emphasizes that the problem created by the overpopulation of cats in specific areas is not solved by depriving animals of food, but by implementing integrated sterilization programs.
It also notes that the Ministry of Agriculture will consult with the Legal Service for full clarification of the issue of feeding stray cats.
The Ministry of Agriculture adds that to this end, the Ministry of Agriculture, through the Veterinary Services, implements a Pancyprian Plan for the sterilization of stray cats, in cooperation with Municipalities, Community Councils and animal welfare organizations.
The Ministry of Agriculture also notes that the state's animal welfare policy is based on the five internationally recognized basic freedoms of animals, namely freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from unnecessary suffering, freedom from injury, pain and disease, freedom from fear and distress, freedom to express normal behaviour, with suitable living conditions.
It further stresses that in this context, and taking into account the welfare of stray animals, the Ministry does not in any way support the destruction or removal of containers placed for feeding stray animals.
The Ministry of Agriculture adds that it recognizes the work of animal-friendly volunteers, who work daily at a significant cost to themselves, for the protection of animals in our country and calls on all involved to approach the issue in a spirit of cooperation, in the interest of animals and, by extension, of all citizens of the country.
