Livestock farmers expressed strong opposition in parliament on Tuesday regarding the government's plan to use local herds to replenish animal stocks lost to foot and mouth disease (FMD). Agriculture Ministry Permanent Secretary Andreas Gregoriou stated that authorities shifted from importing foreign animals to utilizing local herds to save time. However, the Voice of Livestock Farmers group argued that testing local animals for infection poses a risk, as any positive results would necessitate culling. To date, 121 farming units have tested positive, resulting in the destruction of 52,632 sheep and goats, 3,018 cattle, and 24,483 pigs. While €12.75 million in compensation has been distributed, seventeen applications remain pending, with seven under investigation for potential farmer contribution to the spread. A special committee will report on replenishment strategies by the end of July.