S. Paroutis: Cyprus Must Safeguard its Animal 'Leaven'

Sotiris Paroutis spoke on OMEGA Channel's main news bulletin about the impact of foot-and-mouth disease on the livestock sector. He stressed the need for stricter management and adherence to protocols, including further animal culls.

Mr. Paroutis stated that the management of the issue should be elevated to the highest political level and treated in a unified manner, possibly with the assistance of the European Union, especially in relation to the occupied territories where a different management model is followed.

He also emphasized the need to secure genetic material for indigenous breeds of goats and sheep, suggesting the protection of units hosting these breeds. He clarified that there is no problem with dairy products due to heat treatment, but there is a risk of spreading the virus through fresh meat.