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Malas: 'Three Months for Livestock Rescue Plan'

Published March 17, 2026, 12:14
Malas: 'Three Months for Livestock Rescue Plan'

Stavros Malas, head of the Special Scientific Committee for the reconstruction of the livestock sector, emphasized the need for immediate and organized management of the crisis facing the industry. Appointed by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, he will work with the competent Minister to define the terms of office. The committee's main priorities are to replenish lost livestock, protect native breeds, and develop a comprehensive plan to restart the sector. Mr. Malas stressed the need for discipline, composure, and a scientific approach, rejecting emotionalism. Referring to foot-and-mouth disease, he reiterated that culling animals is a key tool for controlling the disease, but highlighted the difficulties arising from the different management in the occupied territories. The lack of control in one part of the island affects the overall response to the crisis, while there are also issues of illegal trafficking of animals and feed. Mr. Malas stated that the committee will develop a comprehensive plan of short-, medium- and long-term measures within three months, with the participation of technocrats, relevant services and representatives of workers. He expressed his assessment that the situation should improve significantly by Easter, while emphasizing that the restoration of livestock is feasible with the right measures and coordination.