The dialogue on foot-and-mouth disease is producing results, said Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letympiotis, adding that the dialogue on the determination of compensation has progressed and the livestock farmers said that the amount of compensation is higher than their own expectations.
In the context of questions on the issue during today's briefing of media representatives, Mr. Letympiotis said that the discussions are no longer limited only to the amount of compensation, but to what is very important in the replacement and restoration of livestock so that they can be reactivated.
The President of the Republic, the Spokesman said, is informed at every stage and guides, supports the efforts. "The issue here is not to provide a political solution to a veterinary issue, but the faithful implementation of the EU protocols, which have not been established with political criteria, but with strict scientific criteria."
The shortest way to be able to go through this major veterinary crisis, said the Spokesman, referring to statements by the competent European Commissioner, is the most faithful implementation of these scientific protocols and we should always keep in mind – he continued – the export sufficiency of Cyprus and the primary sector.
Asked if he will meet with the livestock farmers again, he replied that no new meeting of the President of the Republic has been scheduled on this issue.
On whether there will be an increase in compensation, the Spokesman reiterated that progress has been made and announcements will be made by the competent Ministry and the Advisory Committee when it is "locked".
"The anxiety and indignation of those affected is completely legitimate and respected, but at the same time the necessary health responsibility must be understood," he said.
The President himself, Mr. Letympiotis continued, chaired at least two extended multi-hour meetings in the presence of the co-competent bodies of the state and the involved bodies, where the procedures and protocols were clearly explained, adding that explanations were given during both visits of the competent European Commissioner to our country.
What has become clear, he said, is that "there can be no deviation from European rules".
