Agriculture committee and ministry discuss primary sector challenges in Cyprus

The Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources held a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, to discuss key issues in the primary sector. The agenda included water management, foot-and-mouth disease, fisheries, and the production of halloumi. Committee Chairman Giannakis Gavriil and other members expressed significant concerns regarding water shortages and irrigation management in Cyprus. Minister Panayiotou highlighted that the primary sector is facing challenges due to climate change, water scarcity, and rising production costs. She noted that €338.4 million had been fully absorbed by farmers and livestock breeders through the Rural Development Program by 2025. Additionally, the Minister announced the final day for applications for a major investment scheme worth €67.5 million, with €7.5 million specifically allocated for young farmers. The Ministry aims to focus its programs on supporting professional farmers and rural development.