Dialogos

Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Pazarou Warns of Milk and Halloumi Shortages – “Time for Responsibility, Not Blame”

Published February 24, 2026, 09:01
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Pazarou Warns of Milk and Halloumi Shortages – “Time for Responsibility, Not Blame”

MP Charalambos Pazarou expressed his concern over the spread of foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus, emphasizing the need for immediate and effective crisis management. He stressed that the priority should be to prevent further spread of the virus and protect livestock and the economy, rather than assigning blame. He warned of potential shortages of milk and halloumi, as well as a serious risk of devastation for the livestock sector, particularly in affected areas. Pazarou emphasized the need for calm and responsibility from all involved, so that millions of euros of investments made by livestock farmers are not lost. He rejected the excuse of staff shortages as a justification for the delay in addressing the situation, calling on the competent authorities to act quickly and effectively. The situation is considered critical, as foot-and-mouth disease threatens to cause significant economic damage in Cyprus. Early and effective action is vital to limit the spread of the virus and protect livestock production. The government and competent authorities are called upon to take action and ensure the protection of the interests of farmers and consumers. The MP called on everyone to work together to address the crisis, emphasizing that cooperation and coordinated action are essential to achieve positive results. The situation requires immediate priority and effective management to avoid the worst consequences for the economy and society.