"We have a duty to protect a sector that represents a cornerstone of Sardinia's economy and identity . We must intervene rigorously, responsibly, and with an awareness of the economic value of our supply chains, taking into account the specificities of our agricultural reality. For this reason, we have established an interdepartmental steering committee to coordinate the necessary measures." This was stated by Sardinia's Governor Alessandra Todde after meeting with the heads of the trade associations (Coldiretti, Confagricoltura, Cia, Copagri, Legacoop, Liberi Agricoltori, Assocarni) to review the urgent measures needed to combat the spread of lumpy skin disease and support affected farms .
Also present at the meeting were Health Councilor Armando Bartolazzi, Environmental Protection Councilor Rosanna Laconi, and Agriculture Councilor Gian Franco Satta.
It is explained that the regional action against the disease will have four pillars, illustrated during the meeting.
1) Prompt and adequate reimbursement for culled animals , because, as Todde explained, "farmers must be able to count on immediate and adequate compensation. The Region will advance the payments, and a technical committee will determine the appropriate amount."
2) Mass vaccination and constant monitoring , because, Councilor Bartolazzi emphasized, "the vaccine is the indispensable tool for protecting our livestock. At the same time, it is essential to monitor any side effects and provide compensation for indirect damages, such as abortions or production losses, if proven. The technical committee will be responsible for establishing clear rules."
Regarding vaccines, Bartolazzi continued, "we are already operating in compliance with the European Commission's guidelines. Mass vaccination will allow us to quickly achieve herd immunity and return to normality. However, everyone's cooperation and accurate information are needed."
3) Disposal of carcasses and control of vectors . In this regard, Councilor Laconi announced collaboration with the Provinces to identify suitable areas for burial, in compliance with environmental regulations, "preventing the emergency from becoming an opportunity for speculation outside the island." At the same time, the Department of the Environment will fund disinfestation activities to combat the spread of insect vectors, the main culprits in the transmission of the virus.
4) Immediate support for businesses . Councilor Satta confirmed that "the Region has already allocated €10 million and an additional €2.5 million is immediately available to support the sector. At the same time, a technical committee will be established to define market prices and compensatory measures."
Satta also emphasized the working methods: "A working model will be developed that includes a lead local health authority (ASL) responsible for coordinating containment operations, both for the vaccination campaign and, if necessary, for culling. This lead local health authority will operate at the local level, involving other local health authorities and regional agencies such as Laore, Forestas, and the Forestry Corps."
"The Region is here, standing by the farmers," Todde concluded. "Together with the relevant ministries and the European Commission, we will continue to advocate for Sardinia's interests, calling for a balanced and effective management of the emergency. There will be no top-down decisions: every action will be shared and developed with those who live and work in the area every day."
(Unioneonline/lf)