"The suspension of the killings is a derogation from the European regulation," the general director of agriculture, Andreas Grigoriou, underlined in a written statement, after a meeting with representatives of the protesters in Rizoelia.
The full announcement:
At the request of representatives of the protesting livestock breeders, a long meeting was held this afternoon between their four-member delegation in the presence of the Minister and the Minister.
The meeting started in a positive atmosphere, during which answers were given to all the questions raised regarding vaccinations and sampling. It became clear that the killing of animals is not an option, but a legal obligation arising from the European regulation. Non-compliance with the regulation carries risks of Cyprus' exit from the single market with expected negative consequences.
We explained to the livestock farmers how to formulate and pay compensation, as the payments started last March, while we called for dialogue, cooperation and faithful compliance with the measures, as this is the only way to prevent the spread of the virus and save the livestock of our country.
During the meeting, it was clarified that the protesters' request for a suspension of killings, combined with pan-Cypriot sampling, aims – in their view – to show that the entire country is positive for the virus. They believe that such a development could be used as a lever of pressure on the EU, with the aim of exceptionally demonstrating "flexibility" and allowing the keeping of infected animals in units.
It was clarified, however, on our part, that the suspension of killings is a derogation from the European regulation and cannot be accepted.
We reiterated the dangers posed by such a tactic, stressing that European regulations on public and animal health are non-negotiable and apply in all EU Member States.
At the same time, it was explained that a first round of sampling has already been completed, on the basis of the regulation, in the districts of Limassol, Paphos and Famagusta, without any positive cases being detected.
It was also emphasized that the transmission of the virus is largely linked to human activity and movement, and that today's mobilizations and gatherings increase the risk of spread, undermining efforts to contain the disease.
We reiterated the dangers posed by such a tactic, stressing that European regulations on public and animal health are non-negotiable and apply in all EU Member States.
It was also reiterated that compensation and support measures are on the table, but the implementation of the protocols and cooperation are the only way to protect our livestock farming in the long term. Without cooperation and an end to the mobilizations, the dialogue cannot continue nor can it be ensured that there will be no spread of the virus.
That is why I once again appeal to the protesters to end the gatherings.
