in-cyprus 25 July 2024
The Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation has lodged a complaint with the Ministers of Justice and Agriculture regarding the alleged mistreatment of dogs in the village of Inia, Paphos.
The party claims the animals are in immediate danger, living in deplorable conditions in makeshift shelters with uncertain access to food and water.
The complaint emphasises that these conditions, especially during the current heatwave, pose a serious threat to the dogs’ lives.
The Movement had previously reported the issue to Veterinary Services and the Police but received no response after a week.
Despite further notifications to both ministers on July 23, the situation remains unresolved, according to the Movement’s president, Giorgos Perdikis. The party criticises the lack of a quick and effective response from relevant authorities, including the Animal Police.
The Movement highlights that citizens filed initial complaints on July 15 and that similar incidents have been reported in neighbouring villages.
Anthi Mouzouri, coordinator of the Movement’s animal action group, expressed frustration over the lack of action, questioning the effectiveness of animal welfare legislation.
“Our fellow citizens have now reached a state of despair, as in their attempt to save an animal from torture, their efforts have fallen on deaf ears. What kind of animal welfare are we talking about when, in such a serious case, which poses a threat to the lives of animals (as they are in these makeshift shelters in the summer period and high temperatures), they have not yet been confiscated but, on the contrary, are still there to this day? The legislation is enacted to ensure the welfare of animals, and it must finally be applied!” Mouzouri said.
The party is calling for immediate intervention to ensure the dogs’ safety and well-being, urging the enforcement of existing laws and regulations.
