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Farmers announce indefinite protest amid government compensation offers for foot and mouth disease

Farmers in Cyprus have scheduled an indefinite protest at the Rizoelia roundabout for May 8, 2026, to demand an end to livestock culling and support for affected farms following a foot and mouth disease outbreak. Stella Petrou, representing the 'Voice of Farmers' association, stated that protesters plan to block a lane of the highway and stay overnight. The government has announced a compensation package, with payments ranging from €43 to €178 per sheep or goat, and €150 to €1,500 per cow, with higher rates for animals of high genetic value. Despite these measures, which also include income support and reactivation plans totaling €35.6 million, some farmers remain dissatisfied. The Ministry of Justice and Police have held an emergency meeting to coordinate strategy, explicitly warning that the blockage of any traffic lanes or disruption of public transit will not be permitted. Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris and Chief of Police Themistos Arnaoutis emphasized that while peaceful protest is a right, it must remain within legal boundaries. Police have also launched an investigation into incidents from a previous April 23 protest at the same location. Agricultural organizations, including PEK, have called for the protests to be called off, arguing that the recent compensation agreements provide reasonable support.

Original Sources

Farmers threaten action over animal culling suspension
Sigmalive English · 5 May 2026, 09:22
Foot-and-mouth disease cases rise to 108 units
Sigmalive English · 30 April 2026, 09:47
Eradication of FMD in Cyprus still years away, farmers warn
Sigmalive English · 29 April 2026, 15:38
It may take four to five years to get rid of FMD
Cyprus Mail · 29 April 2026, 14:16
Rare Cypriot sheep breed at risk from foot-and-mouth disease
Sigmalive English · 28 April 2026, 14:19