Ι. department of agriculture 1. introduction · participated in the national rural network...
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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.
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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
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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).
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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),
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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.
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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