Nicosia:An extensive programme comprising at least 65 water supply and irrigation projects, including 15 large-scale initiatives, is set for implementation in 2027, stated Christos Senekis, Minister for Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Development. This announcement was made during a Monday debate on the Ministry's 2027 budget before the Parliamentary Committee on Finance.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the plan includes the use of five permanent desalination units with a capacity of 235,000 cubic metres of water per day, alongside five mobile units totaling 62,000 cubic metres per day. Additional mobile unit projects are being considered for Vasiliko and Mazotos. The Ministry is also continuing efforts against foot-and-mouth disease through vaccinations and support for affected livestock farmers. Regarding Akamas, a revised development plan aims to reduce the environmental impact.

Senekis noted the proposed budget for 2027 is £532 million, marking an £18.7 million increase from 2026, with approximately 43% allocated to the water sector. The Ministry's total appropriations for 2027 reflect a 51.6% rise from 2023. Of this, £433.7 million is for recurrent expenditure, and £98.3 million is for development. Projected revenue stands at £275.7 million, with £48 million earmarked for co-funded projects, totaling £580 million for policy implementation.

The Minister described the 'Pay-as-you-throw' scheme as a key reform, aiming to boost recycling. Work is scheduled for 2027 on a new Municipal Waste Management Plan and National Strategy for the Bioeconomy. For forest fire response, 17 measures are being implemented with a £25.5 million budget, including modern surveillance and fire detection technologies.

Political parties raised concerns about the impact of animal diseases, rising fuel and fertiliser prices, and income loss for winegrowers due to downy mildew. Support for sheep and goat farmers to maintain the PDO status of halloumi was also discussed.

Senekis emphasized efforts to modernize the primary sector through the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy, noting the creative use of funds in certain sectors that have yielded results. He stressed the importance of disseminating scientific knowledge to bolster production.