Ι. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

1. Introduction

The Department of Agriculture is responsible for the implementation of agricultural policies, by preparing and implementing both development and supporting programmes and projects and by providing educational and advisory services to farmers and to rural population.

The overall work of the Department of Agriculture aims at increasing the agricultural production and productivity, by promoting technical or institutional changes and improvements in the broader agricultural sector. Particularly, emphasis was given to the increase of the competitiveness of agricultural products, to maintain a balanced supply of products to the market and to improve farmers’ standard of living within a sustainable agricultural development.

During 2008 particular emphasis was given on the implementation of the Cyprus Rural Development Plan for 2004-2006, as well as the new Cyprus Rural Development Programme for the period 2007-2013.

2. Structure and activities

The Department of Agriculture is organized into 14 specialized Sections stationed, mainly, in Nicosia and six Agricultural District Offices which are sub-divided into Beats. Each beat has a specific number of communities. The Department has also Govern- ment Stations and Nurseries, where various agricultural activities are carried out.

The Sections are as follow:

2.1 Agricultural Extension

The Agricultural Extension Services were actively involved in the preparation and implementation of the annual Extension programme in order to disseminate knowledge, information, practices and train farming population on a wide range of rural development subjects and other related areas. In this context, during 2008, the staff of the six District Agricultural Offices paid 6.359 visits and organized 69 group activities. The Home Economics staff paid 554 visits and organized 311 group activities attended by 2.289 mainly, rural women. 2

In addition, 26 training courses and 6 Apprentice training courses were organized, attended by 632 farmers and rural women. Also educational trips to areas of agricultural and home economics interest were organized. Most of the training courses were held at the Agricultural Training Centers at Agros, Paphos and in Nicosia.

As far as publicity is concerned the extension services played an important role in the issue of 17 bulletins and the organization of radio and TV programmes on a regular weekly base.

In addition, the Extension Services are responsible for the promotion of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013. In this respect, various activities took place including issue of information bulletins, TV promotion, seminars, articles, e.t.c.

The section is also in charge of the computerization of the Department. The extension section continued to update with new themes and input the website of the Department. The address of the website is: www.moa.gov.cy/da.

Regarding the Rural Development Plan 2004-2006 the Section is responsible for the implementation of the Measure 1.4: "Training of farmers" and of the Measure 1.5: "Technical and Advisory Services for the farmers".

For the implementation of the Measure 1.4, during the year 2008 the Section prepared educational programmes for 150 and 300 hours and the training of 88 farmers was completed.

Regarding the implementation of the Measure 1.5 the sector has paid the approved Bodies and Agronomists for their services offered to farmers.

The Section is also in charge of the training of the personnel of the Department of Agriculture. During 2008, 20 training courses were organized.

The Extension Services are involved in the implementation of 4 measures of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013: The Measure 1.1-“Vocational training and information actions”, the Measure 1.2-”Setting up of young farmers”, the Measure 1.3- “Early retirement” and Measure 1.4-“Use of agricultural advisory services”, as well as the setting up of National Rural Network of the Measure 5.1-“Technical support”.

Regarding the implementation of Measure 1.4: “Use of farm advisory services” the Extension Services have approved 28 Bodies for the preparation of business plans etc 3 for farmers. Other 5 Bodies for consultancy to farmers are in procedure of approvement.

Regarding the National Rural Network (NRN) the Extension Services have set it up and started operating in December 2008.The procedure for hiring services for the staffing of the NRN have started in December 2008 and will be completed in March 2009.

2.2 Agricultural Economics

In 2008, the Agricultural Economics Section prepared the Annual Development Budget for the year 2009 and the Medium Term Budgetary Framework for the years 2009- 2011, as regards development expenditure. It also redesigned and prepared a programme and performance based three-year budget for the period 2009-2011.

The Section was also responsible for the preparation of the Annual Report on State Aid in the Agricultural Sector, the notification to the European Union of all measures providing for state aid, the evaluation of projects providing state aid and preparation of several new projects. This included the projects for the compensation of farmers for damages caused to agricultural output or inputs by natural calamities, unfavourable weather conditions or other disasters and damages caused by fire.

It was also responsible for all matters related to the Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, the World Trade Organisation and other EU agreements with third countries. Furthermore, it collected and submitted prices for certain products to EU and participated in a pilot project aiming at testing the prototype of the Information System for Agricultural Market Management and Monitoring (ISAMM) communication module.

Section officers represented the Department of Agriculture in EU´ s Committees and, more specifically, the Direct Payments Managing Committee, the Committee on Agricultural Structures and Rural Development (STAR), the Rural Development Managing Committee, the LEADER Sub-Committee, the European Rural Network Coordinating Committee and the Regulatory Committee on Geographical Indications and Designations of Origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs. The Section also participated in the National Rural Network Coordinating Committee and the Cyprus Farm Accountancy Data Network Committee (FADN). 4

Regarding the registration of the name “Halloumi” as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), the section dealt with the four appeals that were filed against the application made by the Cyprus Cheesemakers Association. At the same time, the section forwarded the applications for registration of the names “Koufeta Amygdalou Geroskipou”, “Lountza Pitsilias” and “Lountza Krasati Kyprou” to the Consultative Committee. The name “Loukoumi Geroskipou” has already been registered as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).

Furthermore, the Section participates in the Managing Authority, acting also as the secretariat of the Rural Development Plans. It had an active role in the monitoring and evaluation of the Plans 2004-2006 and 2007-2013. The annual progress reports for the Rural Development Plan 2004-2006 and the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, which covered the year 2007, were prepared and submitted to the European Commission and were approved.

The Rural Development Plan 2004-2006 was completed at 31/12/2008. 70.000 applications were approximately approved. Total payments were over €170 million or nearly 100% of the available amount. During 2008, two (2) economic amendments were sent to EU in order to help utilize the 100% of the whole budget.

The Section had the main role in the preparation of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, which was approved by the European Committee in October 2007. The approved budget for the Plan 2007-2013 is €325 million, while Additional National Financing of €55 million were also approved. The preparation of new software for monitoring, evaluation and management of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 was continued.

The Section is also responsible for “Technical Support for the Implementation, Monito- ring and Evaluation of the Rural Development Plans/Programmes”. Technical support expenses, amounting, in 2008, to €255 thousand, will be fully covered by the EU.

In addition, the Section is responsible for the implementation of the measure: “Technical Support and Preparation of Collective Development Initiatives at Local Level”, under which the recognised Groups organised seminars for the locals and started the preparation of their local development strategies for the new programming period 2007-2013. The members of the groups which seek to be approved as Leader 5

Local Action Groups were trained through specialized training programs organized by the Section.

Members of the staff of the Section are responsible for the implementation of several other measures of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13 as they were responsible for several measures of the Rural Development Programme 2004-2006.

Section Officers together with Agricultural Insurance Organization Officers participated in a committee which dealt with further examination and readjustment of the National Framework providing compensation to farmers for damages in agriculture in case of natural disasters, emergencies or adverse weather conditions which are not covered by the Agricultural Insurance Organization.

Furthermore, the Government Support Scheme for the reactivation of affected farmers and the restoration of the environment in areas that are declared as fire-stricken was approved by the European Committee on the 27th October 2008.

Moreover, the Section prepared a Scheme aiming at compensation of farmers who suffered losses caused by off-season rainfalls on cereals or fodder legume forages cut for hay-making in May 2007. In total, an area of 105.773 decares was affected and the amount of €1.660.254 was granted to 1.226 farmers.

A revised plan of financial assistance for the enclaved persons, in which improved criteria were provided, and the ceilings were removed, was approved by a decision of the Council of Ministers, on 3rd January 2008. The payment for 2007 had already taken place before the end of 2007 and the additional amount required in 2008 for the implementation of the revised plan for 2007 was €469.595. So the total expenditure for the project for 2007 reached the amount of €677.390.

Within the scope of implementing the Scheme for granting compensations for damages caused by fire in the area of Saittas in June 2007, the amount of €456.501 was granted in 2008 for the payment of the 2nd instalment to 123 beneficiaries.

The economic evaluation of minor irrigation works continued.

Through a forecasting mechanism, data for estimated production for 45 crops was collected, while the edition “Product Profile” was updated.

Last but not least, the Unit of Regulation of Agricultural Debts, which is responsible for the implementation of the Scheme for the Regulation of Agricultural Debts had been 6 established in the Agricultural Economics Section. It should be noted that the Republic of Cyprus had secured beforehand approval from the Council of Ministers of Agriculture of the European Union for the implementation of this Scheme. By the end of 2008, all submitted applications (1.435) had passed through the first optical check and letters were sent to all applicants for submitting data and documents that should have been included in the applications. The files for 1.051 applications had been completed. These applications were evaluated and forwarded to the special committee established for examination and decision making on the approval or not of these applications. A total of 911 applications regarding 2.275 loans of a total amount of €49 million have been so far examined by this committee.

2.3 Seed Production Centre

During 2008 the Seed Certification Schemes have been continued as in previous years. Due to the severe drought which affected the cereal production, in general, the total quantity of certified seeds produced during 2008 was 796,6 tons only compare to the approximate 6.000 tons in previous years. The value of the seeds sold is €560.305 (VAT not included). In addition, the Seed Production Centre produced 74,7 tons of various species basic seed.

2.4 Horticulture

During 2008, within the framework of the farmers training and education about the Common Market Organization (CMO) of agricultural products, the recognition of Producers’ Organizations and the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, officers of the Section prepared leaflets, articles with the measures related to the crops, while they participated in many seminars and gave lectures to interested growers.

The Section significantly contributed towards the recognition of Producers’ Organizations by evaluating the applications through national Advisory Committees. In total there are 24 recognized Producer Groups / Organisations in Cyprus. In 2008, for the implementation of the operational programmes Producer Organisations were subsidised with €747372, for the implementation of the withdrawal scheme in the horticulture sector with €241.269, while Producer Groups were subsidised with €284.204 for the implementation of Regulation 1580/2007. 7

The Section prepared national regulations for the minimum recognition criteria for the Producers’ Organizations of Agricultural Products, which have been approved by the House of Representatives.

For the implementation of Regulation 2202/96, during the 2007/2008 marketing period, the processing of 26.270 tons of citrus through Producers’ Organisations was subsidised with €2.432.517,20.

For the new Rural Development Programme 2007 - 2013, the Section has significantly contributed by preparing leaflets for several Measures such as Measure 1.9. ¨Encouragement of Establishment and Operation of Producers’ Organizations¨, Measure 2.3.2. ¨Undertaking Agri-environmental commitments in potatoes¨, Measure 2.3.3. ¨Undertaking Agri-environmental commitments in citrus¨, and Measure 2.3.7. ¨Development of Organic production of agricultural products¨. It also significantly contributed towards the implementation of the Measure 2.2.1., of the Rural Development Plan 2004 -2006 for the Integrated Crop Management in citrus. In total, 428 Citrus growers were accredited by the Department of Agriculture.

During 2008, in total €1.201.205 were granted to beneficiaries (potato growers and Potato Producer Groups) for their participation in the National Potato Scheme 2006 – 2008.

The Fruit Crops sector continued its activities intensively during 2008, aiming at the increase of productivity and improvement of quality of various fruits (deciduous, citrus, olives, subtropical fruits, etc). Additionally, €1.367 were granted to growers for the reformation of deciduous trees under the relevant scheme.

The Government Farms (nurseries) produced and provided interested growers with 10.000 plants mainly olive trees, deciduous, table grapes, pistachio-trees, avocados and carobs, while approximately 125.000 grafts were produced for the private nurseries’ and growers needs. Finally 86.305 plants of grapevines were produced for the reformation of the sector.

The main activities of the vegetable sector targeted the increase of productivity and improvement of quality and competitiveness of vegetables produced in Cyprus. In this respect, variety trials were carried out in farmer’s fields on vegetables, watermelon, sweet melon, colored peppers and strawberries. According to the 2008 review, the 8 area cultivated with vegetable crops in greenhouses was 317,2 hectares mainly with tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries and beans.

The activities of the sector of ornamentals/cut flowers concentrated mostly on advisory work to growers, on cultivation techniques, new plants and varieties aiming at the improvement and increase of yield and quality. According to the 2007 review, the area used for floriculture was 128,8 hectares. From these, 58,4 hectares were cultivated for cut flower production while 70,4 hectares were used for the production of pot plants.

The botanic garden in Athalassa produced and provided to interested growers around 350.000 aromatic plants. The garden is scheduled to be extended. More than 160 growers cultivate aromatic plants with an area of 135 hectares.

Towards the promotion of Organic Farming the Section has contributed to the implementation of the national Law on Organic Farming 227(I)/2004, which is fully harmonized with Regulation (EC) 2092/91. In 2008, the section continued to educate growers on Organic Farming through lectures and seminars. The Section has significantly contributed for the preparation of national position in the discussion of Draft Implementing Regulations about the revision of the Regulation (EC) 2092/91.

In 2008, the area cultivated according to the Organic Farming law had exceeded 2.700 hectares which corresponds to the 2.05% of the total agricultural area, with more than 560 growers producing organic products. The main crops cultivated are arable crops, olive trees and vines. During 2008, the pilot trial established at the end of 2006 in the Government Farm in Achelia, continued with significant results.

2.5 Viticulture and Oenology

2.5.1 Viticulture

During 2008, the Section continued the effort for dissemination of technical know-how and expertise to vine growers, related governmental institutions, students of agricultural sciences via article writing in magazines and newspapers, radio interviews or on the field discussions.

Efforts were also made for the expansion and management of a 50da of vine propagating material plantation situated in Oreites area of Paphos district, as well as the design and management of an experimental plot under indigenous vine cultivars grafted in several Berlandieri x Rupestris rootstocks. 9

In addition, continued the collaboration with Agricultural Research Institute mainly for upstream supply chain issues (e.g procurement of pre basic vine material) and in situ experimentation.

2.5.2 Oenology

The activities of the Section during 2008 refer to:

- Continues the technical guidance and support to the local wine industry, related governmental institutions, students of oenological sciences via applied experimentation in the Department of Agriculture Model Winery, article writing in magazines and newspapers, television and radio interviews, public presentations and research wine tasting or on the field discussions.

- Logistics coordination body for the implementation of the Commission Regulation (EC) 555/08 with regards to the collection of grapes and vinification of certain Cypriot "genuine samples" for isotopic determination and relevant contribution to the establishment of the European Isotopic Data Bank.

- Execution of 114 micro vinifications for experimentation purposes in several oenological topics e.g the evaluation of indigenous vine cultivars and the effect of pre fermentation cold soaking technique on them, review of sweet Commandaria wine technology, evaluation of authorized oenological substances etc.

- Delegation of Cyprus in several community and international institutions such as the Governmental Experts Group for Oenological Practices and Processes and the Wine Management Committee of the European Commission, the Wine Technology and Wine Microbiology Expert Groups of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV).

2.5.3 Oenology laboratory

The Viticulture-Oenology laboratory carried out a number of analyses for the determination of many parameters in 706 vitivinicultural samples. The samples were provided by the Wine Products Council (VPC) -76 samples (towards the implementation of all the relevant regulations involved in the control of the market), as well as, by individuals (297 samples). 10

In addition, the laboratory analyzed 483 samples (1.900 determinations) that were provided by the research Model winery of the Department within the context of experimental research in several oenological.

Moreover, 25 genuine samples were produced and analyzed towards the implementation of the EU Regulation regarding the foundation of a European Analytical Data Bank of wines.

The requirements set by the control of Oenological Practices Law 87 (I) 2005, were satisfied by inspections at the premises by the authorized officers of the Department. To that end, 874 wine samples were analyzed in our laboratories during 2008.

Also, 2.800 samples were analyzed towards providing continuous technical guidance and support to the local wine industry.

The Laboratory continued the work for its accreditation according to ISO EN 17025. For verification purposes of the method under accreditation, 80 samples were analyzed.

2.5.4 Inspection of oenological practices and processes

The Viticulture and Oenology Section of the Department of Agriculture, is the Competent Authority for the implementation of the community and national legislation in the field of Oenological Practices and Processes such as Council Regulations (EC) 1493/99 and 479/08, Commission Regulations (EC) 1622/00 and 423/08, and Law (87) I of 2005. Under the above mentioned legal framework, on spot inspections were performed covering all Cyprus Wineries and importers sales shops and warehouses of which 200 samples were analyzed in several chemical variables.

2.6 Land and Water Use

In the areas of land and water use emphasis was given to enhance/upgrade the existing soil surveys and soil classification maps and other activities that aim/promote the proper application of plant nutrition, the suitable irrigation practices at farm level, the use of recycled municipal water, sludge and industrial/agricultural wastes according to the Code of Good Agricultural Practices, as well as the management of agro-environmental matters. The introduction/promotion of appropriate technology and transfer of know-how to the farmers through the extension services were also within the addressed issues. 11

Regarding land use, during the year under review the activities were concentrated on soil surveys, upgrading of the island’s soil maps and on plant nutrition. In this respect, a total of 1468 soil and leaf tests were carried out and instructions were given to the farmers for rational use of fertilizers.

The activities concerning water use were concentrated on the best utilization of available water and the mitigation of the effects from its shortage in agriculture. During the year there was a considerable field and laboratory work for the determination of soil solution salinity level.

The work on the use of the recycled water for irrigation from municipal and industrial effluents, animal and olive oil wastes, and the use of treated sludge, as well as, the work on hydroponics cultivation, continued throughout the year.

Additionally efforts continued towards the improvement/development of the infrastructure of various Livestock Areas/Zones. During 2008, landscape maintenance and land improvement works took place in more than 15 livestock areas.

Efforts were also made for the promotion of further mechanization of agriculture, maintenance/leasing of government agricultural machinery and the acquisition of new machinery to cover the needs of the agricultural farms and nurseries of the Department of Agriculture.

Regarding the activities of the Fertilizer Control Board 28 fertilizer samplings took place for quality control purposes. The total amount of fertilizers imported came up to

36.006 tons of total worth €20.944.000.

2.7 Plant Protection

The Sector aims at providing a substantial technical support to the Cypriot farmers and to the private and public organizations interested on plant protection issues, in order to promote sustainable agriculture with little or without negative impact on the environment and human health.

For the support of the private sector, mainly farmers, the Plant Pathology section examined 130 samples in 2008 using various diagnostic techniques. Laboratory tests were also carried out for the inspection of local, EU and imported plant material for the quarantine and harmful pests and pathogens. Six hundreds twenty four samples from local and imported seed potatoes, as well as edible potatoes were tested using the 12 immunofluorescent method for the quarantine bacteria Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus and Ralstonia solanacearum. Two hundred sixty three cultures of the beneficial bacterium Rhizobium radiobacter strain K84 were provided to the governmental nurseries for the control of the plant pathogenic bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

More than 40,000 laboratory assays were conducted for the inspection of private and governmental mother plantations of citrus, grapevines, potatoes and stone fruits, as required by the national plant propagation schemes. The joint project of the Department of Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Institute for the control of citrus tristeza virus has been continuing, surveying citrus plantations for CTV infections and the removal of the infected trees.

The Nematology section announced and evaluated five quotations in the last year for fulfilling the needs of the Department of Agriculture and the Forestry Department for pesticides, crashed wheat, barley, carob-flour and wrapping polyethylene film. A potato cyst nematode survey was conducted for potato exporting purposes and for the national plant propagation scheme.

The section continued the mapmaking of infested and non-infested potato fields with potato cyst nematodes. It also continued the survey in citrus orchards for isolating and determining the population of the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans.

A survey for the detection and isolation of the Pine Wood Nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophylous) was carried out in collaboration with the Forestry Department. Laboratory assays were conducted for isolating and identifying plant- parasitic nematodes in the governmental and private nurseries in order to fulfil the obligation derived from plant health and plant propagation regulations, as well as to provide advises to farmers.

The Entomology Section continued to provide advices for the control of major pests, such as the leaf miner and red scales of citrus, Mediterranean fruit fly, codling moth of pome trees, grape berry moth, potato and vegetable leaf miners, potato tuber moths and fruit fly and moths of olives.

The biological control of Citrus Wooly Whitefly (Aleurothrixus floccosus) was successful due to its natural enemy Cales noacki. Subsequently, this method has been promoting in Integrated Pest Management Programmes of Citrus. For the 13 effective time of pesticides’ applications, pest traps, pheromones and other attractants were used in scattered plantations in order to monitor the population’s fluctuation of mediterranean fruit fly, citrus red scales, codling moth, grape fruit fly, etc.

Campaigns were taken place for the control of Cereal Leaf Miner (Syringopais temperatella), Locusts (Dociostaurus marrocances, Decticus confifrons), Stink Bug (Dolycoris baccarum) and scale insects (coccidae family) of citrus. In some cases, protection measures were not necessary due to the limited vegetative growth of the crops, caused by the low precipitation.

The Sector was also actively implemented in the organization and supervision of the various Plant Protection Associations (Plant Protection Association Law 19/72 until 2007): Control Cereal Leaf Miner (S. temperatella) in Anarita village in Paphos, Grape berry moth (Polychrosis botrana) in Lemesos and Paphos districts and Olive fly (Bactocera oleae) in Nicosia and Larnaca districts. The Associations continued and this year to take control measures for the above-mentioned pests.

The rat control activity continued in order to minimize the rat population in the rural and urban areas throughout Cyprus. This activity included rat control campaigns, as well as train and education of farmers and stockeepers about the use of rat baits and rodenticides.

Advices were given to the farmers for adopting practices and tactics used in Integrated Pest Management Programmes for the control of pests and diseases in problematic plantations. The Sector continued to provide spray announcements for preventing, eliminating or reducing the development of the environmental based plant diseases and pests. The spray announcements were based on empirical programmes taking into account the environmental conditions and the stage of the crops, and the use of pest pheromones and traps.

Another main activity of the Sector is the investigation, development and promotion of pest management methods based on integrated and biological control methods. In 2008, four field trials were conducted, in collaboration with other Sectors, Departments and Organisations, in order to investigate and promote improved control methods of pests and pathogens. A trial was conducted in Xylofagou region in order to validate 9 disease models for forecasting the potato late blight, using a weather station. Another trial was carried out in Limassol in order to evaluate the effectiveness of tomato cultivars with resistance to Tomato Yellow Curl Virus. Two more trials were conducted 14 in the governmental nursery ‘Achelias’ in Pafos in order to evaluate the effectiveness of massive trapping methods against Olive Fruit Fly and the effectiveness of pesticide applications for the control of yellow aphids in pecan walnuts. The efficacy of some herbicides was also tested.

The Apiculture Section was actively involved in the encouragement of bee-keeping through the Development Agricultural Project 2007 - 2013 and the Bee-Keeping Programme 2008-2010.

2.8 Analytical Laboratories and Animal Feed Control

The Section’s work aimed at strengthening the enforcement of the Pesticides, Animal Feeding Stuffs and Fertilizers Law, as well as at contributing to the Department’s efforts for introducing and monitoring Good Agricultural Practice and for protecting the environment.

The number of samples analysed during 2008 concerned: 1468 leaves and soil, 283 water samples, 960 animal feeding stuffs, 26 fertilizers and 163 pesticide formulations. In addition a total of 175 samples of various fruit and vegetables were analysed for the detection of pesticide residues, within the Preventive Monitoring Programme as well as, for the establishment of Pre-Harvest Intervals under local conditions, for selected pesticides.

The Section continued the work for the Accreditation of the Pesticides Residues Laboratory which is at the final stage, whereas work was initiated on the Accreditation of the Animal Feeds and Fertilizers Laboratory and Pesticides Formulations Laboratory. Accreditation procedures were extensively delayed due to the Aflatoxin contamination incident of imported Feed raw materials which required the full commitment of the laboratory staff.

Commercial and on-farm feed millers and importers of feeding stuffs and feed additives were advised and trained on the safe and proper use of feed antimicrobials as well as on the proper operation of establishments using such additives. Feed millers, importers and livestock keepers were also trained on the Feedingstuffs and Feed Additives Law concerning the approval and registration of establishments and intermediaries. 15

During 2008, a total of 328 shipments of feeds and feed additives were approved for importation following at least documentary check. Furthermore, 1.590 notifications were received for shipments of feeds and feed materials from member states. Also, 600 visits were carried out to several establishments for the inspection of quality, labeling and use of feeds and feed additives. During these inspections, 942 samples were taken for analysis.

2.9 Plant Health Sector

During the year under review, Officers continued with the registration of potato producers, vine producers and citrus producers according to EU legislation. Furthermore, checks have been carried out for 98% of the registered Traders/Importers/Exporters. Applications for registration to all Official Registries is an ongoing process.

2.9.1 Phytosanitary Control of plants and plant products

All the consignments of plants and plant products that are imported from Third Countries into Cyprus are subject to phytosanitary control. In particular, from the inspected 3.132 consignments of plants and plants products imported into Cyprus, 35 were withhold (20 of which were destroyed). The remaining was released after the appropriate actions were taken by the importers.

Consignments that enter or exit the Republic of Cyprus from or to other Member States are checked randomly but systematically, based on risk analysis assessment. For the year 2008, 2.660 consignments of plants and plants products arrived from the member states.1% of consignments were checked, with the exemption of potatoseed from Member State which was checked at a higher frequency.

2.9.2 Surveys

During the year 2008 surveys were carried out on potato plants and tubers (ware potatoes and seed potatoes) for the detection of the harmful organisms Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Ralstonia solacanearum and Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus. 326 samples of potatoes were taken to the Plant Protection laboratory for further analysis for brown rot and ring rot and results were negative in all cases. In addition surveys were carried out in vineyards for Dactulosphaira vitifoliae, in citrus 16 orchards for Guignardia citricarpa and Xanthomonas campestris, in forestry areas for Seiridium cardinale, Ips sexdentatus, Dryocosmus kuriphilus, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, Giberrella circinata.

Furthermore, surveys were carried out according to EU legislation for the detection of Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, Phytophtora ramorum, Pepino mosaic virus, Bactrocera zonata, etc.

Results of these surveys were negative and detailed records of the surveys were notified to all EU Member States and EU Plant Health Committee.

During the year under review a close monitoring of the status of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Cyprus was also carried out. Results have shown that this harmful organism has spread in Limassol, areas in Paphos and in Larnaca. Due to one incident in Famagusta area in 2006, this area needs to remain under close supervision before its declaration as pest free area. Officers have inspected about 10.000 susceptible palm trees in nurseries, public and private gardens. An action plan was formed where drastic measures were taken to prevent its further spread from the demarcated areas. These included mainly the application of systemic insecticides on all susceptible palm plants. In addition monitoring of Nicosia area continued with the use of pheromone traps. Furthermore, radio and TV broadcasting, notes on electricity bills, posters, leaflets, information on website, regular meetings with municipalities were part of the action plan aiming at increasing public awareness and involvement in the prevention of further spread of the harmful organism.

Finally, a new harmful organism was detected, Paysandisia archon, in the area of Paphos, which also attacks a range of palm species. Further measures have been taken to prevent its spread.

2.9.3 Quality control of agricultural products All the consignments of agricultural products exported and imported into Cyprus were inspected. The consignments traded to and from other Member States were inspected at a lower frequency. During these inspections 2.472 Conformity certificates were issued. Some 36 samples of fresh fruit and vegetables were collected and sent to the State General Laboratory for the determination of pesticide residues. Furthermore, samples of fresh fruit and vegetables were collected and send to the Analytical 17

Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture for the determination of pesticide residues.

2.9.4 Pesticides and biocides

A number of 61 plant protection products and 79 biocides were authorized this year by the Pesticides Authorization Board. The registration of 173 plant protection products has been revoked (122 due to the withdrawal of the active substance according to Dir. 91/414/EEC, 35 due to the lack of support by the manufacturers and 16 due to the expiry of the registration period). The registration of 30 biocides has been revoked due to the withdrawal of the active substance according to Dir. 98/8/EC.

A certificate has been issued for 186 salespersons and 45 stores of plant protection products.

In total 30 inspections have been carried out in stores with regards to the implementation of the relevant national legislation. Furthermore, 47 samples of plant protection products were collected for quality control and 172 plant products for residues control.

2.9.5 Plant propagating material

During 2008, 274 inspections were carried out to suppliers of plant propagating material of ornamental and fruit plants, and 144 inspections to suppliers of plant propagating material of vegetables.

In total 1.774 basic mother trees, 185.412 trees have been certified. Also have been inspected 34.307.388 vegetable seedlings.

Furthermore, 150 hectares of seed potatoes have been inspected and 1.516,5 tones of seed potatoes were certified. During the inspections, 60 tones of seed potatoes were rejected mainly due to blackleg.

2.9.6 Seed Control

During the year, 41 samples of seeds were received from the Seed Testing Laboratory for the determination of their germination, viability and purity.

Within the framework of the certification of seeds, 8.155 decars of cereals have been inspected. 18

2.10 Cattle and Dairy sector

The Cattle and Dairy sector is mainly dealing with matters concerning the nutrition, management, genetic improvement and housing of beef and dairy cattle. The main aim is to have efficient high producing dairy units, with reasonable costs of production. Specialised training programmes are being organized at training centers KE.G.E. which deal with all aspects of production, management, health, genetic improvement, housing and the introduction of new technology.

At the end of each year the Annual Bovine Population Survey is being carried out, the results of which are being sent to the European Commission and to Eurostat. According to Annual Survey, which was carried out during December 2007, 56.000 bovine animals were bred in farms. Milk and beef production is estimated to 150.000 and 4.000 tons respectively. On the other hand producer prices are estimated for milk to €49/100Kg and for beef to €282/100Kg. The results are also being used by the Ministry of Agriculture to monitor different aspects of the sector, to make useful comparisons between years and help where weaknesses are being located.

The Cattle and Dairy sector is also responsible for the enforcement of the legislation concerning the Carcass Classification of adult bovine animals, pigs and sheep, according to the community scale and the reporting of prices. For this reason several visits are organized throughout the year to the slaughterhouses.

The Cattle and Dairy sector also deals with matters concerning the breeding or pure- bred bovine animals and the establishment and recognition of official Breeders Associations.

2.11 Sheep and Goats Husbandry

The activities of the Sheep and Goats Sector covered the implementation of Milk Recording Scheme and the production and issue improved animals for breeding. Also include advisory work on breeding, nutrition, selection of animals and others.

Architectural plans were issued to 32 interested livestock keepers for the construction of suitable sheds.

The programme for combating scrapie disease in Damascus goats through genetic methods continued at Acheleia Government Livestock Unit in collaboration with the 19

Veterinary Services. The aim of the programme is to create a nucleus herd with homozygous genotype DD, SS, SD (Scrapie resistant genotype) breeding animals.

In 2008 a total of 16 rams RR, 109 male lambs, 131 female lambs RR and 76 ewes were issued to sheep and goats owners for breeding. Also were issued 33 male kids 14 female kids with homozygous genotype DD, SS, SD.

At the Governmental Livestock Units, Achelia and Oreites the work for upgrading the genetic potential of the animals for important economic traits was continued. Genetic evaluation is based on the selection indexes of growth rate of young animals (lambs and kids) and the milk production of female ancectors. This method is used also for flocks of sheep and goats owners who participate in the Performance Recording Scheme of the Department of Agriculture.

For the year 2008 the total sheep and goat milk production was estimated at 44.000 tons and the meat production at 7.000 tons.

The Price of sheep milk during the year was 80-95 cent per litre and goat milk 50-55 cent/litre. Price of live weight mutton and kid meat was €2.75 per kilo.

2.12 Pigs & Poultry

Advisory Services on various aspects were offered to pig and poultry farmers.

According to the Annual Pig survey carried out in 2008 the operating pig units were 103 (provisional data) compared to 106 units in 2007. In 2008, 707.882 pigs (provisional data) were slaughtered, compared to 678.797 pigs in 2007.

In the poultry sector a total of 99 units specializing in poultry meat and egg production, as well in hatching egg production, game birds and ostriches were in operation during 2008. At the same time 29 slaughterhouses and poultry meat cutting centers were operating. Domestic chick production was 14,5 million broilers and 401.510 egg type pullets (compared to 14,5 million and 342.520 respectively in 2007). In addition, 158.000 broiler type and 52.700 egg type chicks were hatched from imported or transferred hatching eggs from other E.U. member states. A number of 12.000 egg type pullets, 15 weeks old, were transferred from Greece. Also 203.140 broiler type and 9.340 egg type reproduction chicks were transferred from other E.U. member states (compared to 178.320 and 2.390 respectively in 2007). Turkey chicks placements were reduced to 59.330 (transferred from other E.U. member states), 20 compared to 65.580 in 2007. Duck placements have been significantly reduced in 2008 (from 21.000 in 2007 to 10.000). Finally, 27.737 boxes of eggs (832.110 dozens) for direct human consumption were transferred from other E. U. member states and 286.920 broiler type hatching eggs were transferred to Greece.

As regards the marketing standards of eggs for hatching and poultry chicks, edible eggs and poultry meat, inspections were carried out in order to ensure the implementation of Regulations (EC) 617/2008, 589/2008 and 543/2008 respectively.

2.13 Authorisation of Payments Division

The Authorisation of Payments Division was established in February 2004 and its main responsibility is the approval of payments for a number of Measures/Schemes of the Rural Development Plan 2004 – 2006, the Rural Development Plan 2007 – 2013 and for measures related to the Common Market Organisation (CMO) of the Fruits/Vegetables and Olives-Olive Oil sectors. The Division consists of two sections responsible for authorisation of payments, an IT unit responsible for the administrative computerised checks and controls, and a unit of inspectors responsible for the on-the- spot controls.

As regards the Rural Development Plan and Common Market Organisation, the Division deals with the authorisation of payments of certain Measures/Schemes providing support for investments in agricultural holdings, as well as, schemes promoting agricultural production methods designed to protect the environment and to maintain the countryside. All applications are checked for their conformity to the special terms and criteria of the measure for which they are submitted. In this respect the personnel of the Section carries out checks, to ensure verification of compliance with the special terms and conditions for granting support. Needless to say that there is a very close collaboration with the respective staff of the District Agricultural Offices for the reception, recording and acceptance of the applications, as well as with the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organisation (CAPO) for the final approval and execution of payments.

During the year under review, a number of 2.965 applications with a total amount of financial assistance €41.502.950,41 were sent to the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organization for payment. 21

Also, during the first call for applications of the implementation for a number of Measures/Schemes of the Rural Development Plan 2007 – 2013, a number of 2.370 applications have been submitted for the measures and schemes dealt by the Authorisation of Payments Division.

2.14 National Audit Systems Regulation

Internal Audit Service of the Department of Agriculture was created in June 2007 based on the Article No 4, paragraph No 6, Regulation 882/2004/EK. Initially, it was consisted of an Agricultural Officer A’, and then was staffed with an Officer of Agriculture and a Superintendent of Agriculture.

Aim of internal controls that are carried out by Internal Audit Service, is to ascertain if the official controls are applied effectively and according to the legislation about foodstuffs and foods, and also to check the extend to which these controls are compatible with the Multiannual National Plan of Control of 2007-2009 of the Department of Agriculture.

The Internal Audit System is an independent service and is subjected directly to the Director of the Department of Agriculture.

The sectors that are checked by the Internal Audit Service are: a) Sector of Plant Health of the Plant Health and Quality Control Service b) Sector of Control of Foodstuffs of the Section of Analytical Laboratories c) Sector of Biological Agriculture of the Section of Horticulture d) Sector of Protection of Products of Geographic Indication and Nominal Origin of the Section of Agricultural Economics and Ιnstitution of Control of these products, of the Plant Health and Quality Control Service

Controls are carried out based on a program, that is worked out through collaboration with the coordinator of the checked sector and which is approved by the Director of the Department of Agriculture. They are carried out by 2 Officers of Internal Audit Service, with the presence of the Coordinator of each Sector. Afterwards the end of controls, the Internal Audit Service draws up report in order to inform the Director of the Department of Agriculture. In this report, are included the positive discoveries (confirmation of compliance) and the sections that require improvement (negatively discoveries)

Antoniselia/19022009