Politis

Government Announces Nine-Point Plan to Support Livestock Farmers Affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published March 16, 2026, 17:19
Government Announces Nine-Point Plan to Support Livestock Farmers Affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease

The Council of Ministers is expected to approve a nine-point plan today to support livestock farmers affected by foot-and-mouth disease. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized that the government stands by those affected and that the measures aim at full compensation, income support, and the rapid reactivation of livestock production. Specifically, the plan includes the immediate payment of compensation for hay, animal feed, and animal products, as well as income support for affected farmers for 12 months, based on their actual income and tax returns. In addition, the government will provide support for the culling of animals and the reactivation of farms. President Christodoulides stated that a prepayment of compensation of up to €50,000 per unit has already been decided, which will be paid to eligible beneficiaries within the next week. The government has also received substantial assistance from international partners to address the crisis. Stavros Malas will head the Scientific Committee that will monitor the evolution of the situation. The government believes that dealing with the foot-and-mouth disease crisis is a significant test and is judged by its ability to respond to the needs of society.