Approximately 1,000 animals face the prospect of returning to Cyprus streets as a court-ordered demolition threatens the animal shelter in Kato Paphos, the Animal Party Cyprus announced.
The party states a court demolition order has been issued, but no one knows how it will be implemented. The Animal Party Cyprus has addressed the chronic issue several times without finding a solution for the animals’ fate.
Local authorities cannot implement Dog Law 184(I)/2002, which requires them to provide temporary holding facilities, according to the announcement.
A visit and meetings by the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare with competent Paphos authorities produced no results, and the creation of a regional shelter now appears an elusive dream.
The Animal Party Cyprus plans to convene an urgent meeting in cooperation with Geroskipou Municipality. Participants will include the Veterinary Services Authority, the Ministry of Agriculture’s veterinary services, and responsible shelter volunteers.
The meeting aims to discuss all parameters concerning the shelter and find an immediate solution through collective cooperation to save all animals.
The party describes the situation as unprecedented for a prosperous country that cannot ensure animal welfare.
The issue has extended beyond Cyprus borders, with international criticism of the state’s unacceptable stance and inability to act, the party states.
