The environmental movement expressed strong concern on Thursday regarding the government’s handling of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

It warned that the situation threatens not only livestock farming but also the country’s biodiversity and agricultural heritage.

The movement said recent images of widespread and uncontrolled animal culling caused “strong concern but also deep sadness,” adding that the crisis goes beyond veterinary issues and affects rural life and Cyprus’ natural heritage.

Preventive measures were not implemented in time, including stricter controls, monitoring of livestock units, and a comprehensive disease-prevention plan, it said.

It urged the authorities to strengthen biosecurity in farms, apply scientifically backed measures to limit the disease, support affected livestock farmers and take steps to protect Cypriot animal breeds.