The Ministry of Agriculture is reviewing the request from the Union of Sheep and Goat Producers’ Groups for additional financial support, while assuring that it is in constant communication with the sector and recognizes the difficulties caused by the restrictive measures to combat foot-and-mouth disease.

According to the relevant announcement, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment understands the difficulties faced by goat and sheep farmers due to the restrictive measures implemented to prevent and limit the spread of foot-and-mouth diseaseand is in constant communication and collaboration with the sector.

“Recognizing the importance of sheep and goat farming to the primary sector and the Cypriot economy, the Government has stood by sheep and goat farmers from the very beginning. That is why, in the previous period, it substantially bolstered goat and sheep farming through increased subsidies, while nearly 50% of the major investment program, amounting to approximately €30 million, is allocated to investments in this specific sector.”

Regarding foot-and-mouth disease, according to the announcement, compensation for affected livestock farmers has already been approved and is being paid out, in line with the decisions taken to support the sector.

As for the new request from the Union of Sheep and Goat Producers’ Groups for additional financial support, this has been received by the Ministry’s General Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development and will be evaluated by the relevant departments, in accordance with the current institutional framework and taking into account the needs of the sector.

“The Ministry’s goal remains the effective protection of livestock and the substantial support of livestock farmers, through measures that are evidence-based, feasible, and responsive to the sector’s actual needs.”