Government steps up checks and enforcement as farmers and experts race to contain the disease outbreak.
The government announced a series of tougher measures on Tuesday aimed at containing the livestock disease outbreak that has shaken Cyprus' farming community and sparked protests by livestock breeders.
The measures were unveiled by Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou following a series of high-level meetings at the Presidential Palace involving farmers, livestock breeders, and relevant authorities.
Among the key decisions announced were the completion of animal culling and vaccination efforts, stricter penalties for illegal transactions and animal movements linked to the occupied north, tighter enforcement of biosecurity measures, and increased monitoring at crossing points.
Authorities also said the police and National Guard will play a more active role in enforcing biosecurity rules designed to prevent the spread of the disease.
In addition, the government's epidemiological team will hold regular meetings with veterinary services, farming organizations and livestock breeders to closely monitor developments and coordinate the response.
The announcement comes as officials race to prevent further spread of the virus, which experts warn could have serious consequences for Cyprus' sheep and goat farming industry.
Speaking after the meeting, Stavros Malas, who heads the Special Scientific Committee overseeing the recovery of the livestock sector, said the next three months will be crucial.
"The culling process is continuing as planned," he said, warning that the virus will continue to spread if strict biosecurity measures are not followed.
He added that authorities have decided to intensify tracing efforts to identify the source of infections.
"If we fail to identify where the virus is coming from, the entire sheep and goat farming sector could be at risk," he said.
The government's move was welcomed by farming representatives, who have been calling for stronger action.
Panicos Hambas said unity and cooperation would be essential if the sector is to overcome the crisis.
"Today's meeting with the president was constructive and held at a very high level," Hambas said, adding that the decision to increase fines for illegal transactions was particularly important.
The latest measures come just days after livestock breeders took to the streets in protest over the handling of the outbreak.
Tensions flared during Friday's demonstration when police blocked trucks from travelling from the GSP area to the Presidential Palace, leading to confrontations between officers and protesters.
For many farmers, the issue is about more than just disease control. Sheep and goat farming remains a vital source of income for rural communities and plays a key role in the production of traditional products such as halloumi. With officials warning that the coming months will be decisive, many in the sector will be watching closely to see whether the new measures can prevent further losses and restore confidence in the industry.
