Allegations of Negligence in Dog Importation Controls
Ombudswoman Maria Stylianou-Lottides has criticized the vetinary services for their alleged negligence in addressing concerns about the uncontrolled importation of dogs into Cyprus. The issue was highlighted by Voice for Animals, an animal welfare NGO federation, following a complaint from a concerned citizen regarding the lack of action by the veterinary services after her initial report in March 2022.
The complainant had reached out to the agriculture ministry to address the dog importation concerns and suggest that the minister seek daily customs data from Larnaca airport. Despite being promised a follow-up and potential meeting, the complainant was met with silence until August 2023, when she was informed that the veterinary services had not received any instructions from the ministry and deemed their involvement unnecessary.
In response to these claims, the agriculture minister clarified that instructions had indeed been issued in November 2022 to improve veterinary and customs controls at entry points. However, the director of the veterinary services maintained that no meeting occurred and attributed the delay in response to a postal error within the agency.
Lottides’s published letter highlighted the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing that the veterinary services have a duty to act promptly and effectively to prevent illegal activities and protect public interest. She urged the veterinary services to collaborate with the ministry to conduct a thorough investigation into the complaints and implement necessary measures, keeping Voice for Animals updated on the progress.
The unfolding situation underscores the importance of accountability and swift action in matters concerning public safety and animal welfare. The call for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of negligence in dog importation controls is a step towards ensuring responsible management of animal imports and adherence to legal protocols.
