Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou on Wednesday rejected criticism over the government’s handling of the foot-and-mouth outbreak, insisting authorities activated strict biosecurity measures and a national action plan from the outset.
Biosecurity and inspections in place
Speaking after a meeting with livestock farmers and cheesemakers, Panayiotou dismissed claims of negligence raised during Tuesday’s extraordinary session of the House agriculture committee, where MPs criticised her absence as she attended the crisis management centre.
“From the first moment the cases were identified, those involved in the free areas were informed,” she said.
Panayiotou noted that authorities conduct around 600 animal inspections annually. Since December, veterinary services have examined 2,000 sheep and goats and 2,000 cows as part of intensified monitoring linked to the foot-and-mouth outbreak.
Vaccination strategy and EU policy
The minister stressed that rapid vaccination remains critical but clarified that no European Union country carries out preventive inoculation before confirming cases. She said Cyprus has secured sufficient vaccine doses to meet the Republic’s needs.
“Time is of the essence. Vaccination must proceed in parallel with strict movement controls and biosecurity measures,” she stated.
Panayiotou added that exports of halloumi and other dairy products will not be affected by the outbreak. She urged farmers and producers to follow established protocols and cooperate fully with authorities.
“No one is left behind, no sector will be left exposed,” she said.
Crossing points and containment measures
Addressing criticism over the earlier lifting of spraying measures at crossing points from the north, Panayiotou explained that authorities based the decision on negative test results.
She underlined that if mistakes occurred, ongoing procedures grounded in scientific data would reveal them. “If something was not done correctly, it will become apparent through the process being followed,” she said.
Under EU rules, preventive vaccination can only begin once authorities confirm cases. Immediate culling and targeted vaccination within designated containment zones remain the cornerstone of disease management, she added.
“The priority is to contain the virus and effectively support those affected,” Panayiotou said, calling for collective effort across the livestock sector to tackle the foot-and-mouth outbreak.
Separate issue over education appointment
Panayiotou also faces questions over her reappointment to the public education service. After appearing on the appointments list in early February, she requested a further suspension of her post, citing public interest due to her ministerial duties.
The educational service committee will examine the request in the coming days. Current legislation generally allows only one suspension, raising concerns among members about setting a precedent.
Her appointment, effective from September 1, 2026, was previously suspended for one year while she served as agriculture minister. If the committee rejects a second suspension, she would need to assume her teaching role or forfeit her place on the list, which will be abolished on August 31, 2027.
Also read: Psychological support for farmers hit by foot-and-mouth disease
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