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  • Flamingo Numbers Plummet to 47 as Cyprus Wetlands Face Crisis

    Flamingo Numbers Plummet to 47 as Cyprus Wetlands Face Crisis

    flamingo numbers — Flamingo numbers in Cyprus have plummeted from 13,000 to just 47, signalling an ecological crisis in the country’s vital wetland areas. This alarming decline was reported during a recent session of the Parliamentary Environment Committee, where officials from the Game and Fauna Service expressed deep concerns over the state of Akrotiri Salt Lake and Lake Makria.

    Flamingo numbers: Critical Decline in Flamingo Population

    The Game and Fauna Service has raised the alarm about the dramatic reduction in flamingo populations, with senior official Nikos Kasinis stating, “whilst up to 13,000 flamingos were recorded in previous years, their number this month was limited to just 47.” This stark figure highlights the urgent need for action to protect these birds and their habitats.

    Factors Contributing to the Crisis

    According to Kasinis, the primary contributors to this ecological disaster are poor water quality and development pressures on the wetland areas. The inflow of water to the lakes is reportedly contaminated, leading to conditions that are no longer conducive to supporting bird life. Environmental organisations such as BirdLife and Terra Cypria have echoed these concerns, stating that the wetland system has effectively collapsed.

    Environmental Degradation and Development Pressures

    The environment committee was informed that water levels in the Salt Lake rise only during extended droughts, suggesting that the quality of inflow has deteriorated. Kouria Mayor Pantelis Georgiou described the situation as a “generalised disorder,” warning that the aquifer water risks permanent contamination due to ongoing developments in the area. He pointed out that communities like Asomatos and Akrotiri lack essential sewerage systems, exacerbating the problem.

    Action Plans and Community Involvement

    Mayor Georgiou is spearheading an extensive Action Plan, which is anticipated to be finalised by February in collaboration with Limassol Municipality and various government departments. This plan will aim to address the issues affecting the wetlands and will involve discussions with non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

    Urgent Need for Infrastructure Improvements

    One of the mayor’s key requests from the parliamentary representatives is to secure a decree from the Interior Ministry that would extend sewerage system boundaries to include the affected communities. Georgiou highlighted that specific sewage sources from properties not connected to the sewerage network have been identified and cut off in cooperation with the Limassol Sewerage Board, but more comprehensive measures are needed.

    Environmental Concerns and Public Health Risks

    During the discussions, significant concerns were raised regarding the vertical pipe discharging untreated sewage into the sea at Lady’s Mile. Reports suggest that up to 500 tonnes of untreated sewage are released into swimming and fishing areas, posing serious health risks to the public and further threatening the aquatic ecosystem.

    Impact on Lake Makria

    Lake Makria has been described by environmentalists as a “swamp” and a “sewage site,” with allegations that contractors for large developments are discharging water without adhering to licensing regulations. Such activities are believed to be causing irreparable damage to the wetland, which is crucial for various bird species.

    Demand for Immediate Action

    Members of the Environment Committee expressed significant dissatisfaction with the lack of timely interventions to address these issues. MP Andreas Kafkalias questioned the inability of central authorities to coordinate effectively, while Kostas Kosta referred to the ongoing situation as a crime against the environment. Committee chair Charalambos Theopemptou urged for an audit by the Audit Office to assess the management of Akrotiri Salt Lake.

    Warnings About Future Consequences

    The Environment Committee has issued dire warnings that without immediate and effective measures, “half the Salt Lake will be lost in coming years,” which could have irreversible consequences for both public health and Cyprus’s biodiversity. The situation calls for urgent collaboration between government bodies, local authorities, and environmental groups to safeguard the wetland habitats.

    As Cyprus grapples with this ecological crisis, the fate of its flamingo population hangs in the balance. Urgent action is needed to restore the wetlands and ensure the survival of these magnificent birds, which are integral to the country’s natural heritage.

  • Irish Minister Jim O’Callaghan to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Cyprus

    Irish Minister Jim O’Callaghan to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Cyprus

    Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan will visit Cyprus for St Patrick’s Day, following an announcement made on Wednesday by the country’s public broadcaster, RTE. This visit is part of a series of overseas trips undertaken by various ministers as they celebrate Ireland’s national day on March 17.

    O’Callaghan’s Itinerary and Purpose

    O’Callaghan, who has been in his role since January 2022 and is originally from Dublin, will also travel to Greece as part of his St Patrick’s Day engagements. The minister’s visit aims to strengthen ties between Ireland and nations within the European Union, particularly as Ireland prepares to take over the Council of the EU’s rotating presidency in July.

    St Patrick’s Day Celebrations and Ministerial Travel

    St Patrick’s Day is a significant occasion for Irish ministers, with 38 government officials scheduled to make trips abroad. Notably, eight ministers will travel to the United States, where Taoiseach Micheal Martin will visit President Donald Trump at the White House and also attend events in Philadelphia. Foreign Minister Helen McEntee will head to Boston, while Enterprise Minister Peter Burke will be in New York City.

    Other ministers are set to celebrate the day in various locations across the US. Arts Minister Patrick O’Donovan will visit Georgia, Housing Minister James Browne will travel to Chicago, and Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon will be in San Francisco. Junior ministers Robert Troy and Niamh Smyth will head to Austin and Miami, respectively.

    Ministers with Alternative Destinations

    While many ministers focus on the US, others have chosen different paths. Tanaiste Simon Harris will travel to Paris and London, while Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien will visit Brazil. Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton is set to explore both Chile and Argentina, and Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers will travel to Senegal and Nigeria.

    Strengthening Ireland’s European Relations

    As Ireland prepares to assume the Council of the EU’s presidency, the government has outlined plans for a cultural initiative that pairs each EU member state with an Irish county. Cyprus has been paired with County Leitrim, the smallest county in Ireland by population. This initiative aims to enhance cultural exchanges and relationships within the EU.

    The Irish government has stated that during its six-month presidency, the ambassadors of each paired country will engage in public activities designed to foster connections between Ireland and its EU partners. These engagements will highlight Ireland’s role in the European Union and its commitment to strengthening its international relationships.

    Looking Ahead

    As O’Callaghan prepares for his trip to Cyprus, the visit is anticipated to be a valuable opportunity to reinforce Ireland’s diplomatic ties in the region. The focus on cultural and political partnerships will play a crucial role as Ireland steps into a leadership position within the EU.

    The upcoming presidency will not only spotlight Ireland’s efforts in fostering collaboration among EU member states but also contribute to a greater understanding of Ireland’s cultural heritage and its contributions to the European community.

  • Cypriot MEPs Openly Support Same-Sex Weddings

    Cypriot MEPs Openly Support Same-Sex Weddings

    same-sex weddings — same-sex weddings — Three Cypriot MEPs have expressed their willingness to attend a same-sex wedding if invited, highlighting a progressive shift in attitudes among some politicians in the region. Disy’s Loucas Fourlas, Diko’s Costas Mavrides, and independent Fidias Panayiotou all affirmed their support during a recent interaction with social media influencer Andreas Haris.

    When asked if they would attend a same-sex wedding, Fourlas responded enthusiastically, saying, “Of course, why would I not go?”, before clarifying, “if they invite me, right?” His openness was mirrored by Mavrides, who stated, “If they invite me to their party, I will go.” Adding a light-hearted touch to the conversation, Mavrides joked that he would bring an envelope of cash, a traditional gesture at Cypriot weddings, to which Haris quipped, “make it a fat envelope, you’re an MEP!”

    Panayiotou, initially pausing before his response, also agreed, acknowledging that the issue is complex. He commented, “It has a lot of background,” emphasising that attending a wedding does not necessarily equate to endorsing the institution of same-sex marriage or the associated rights, such as adoption.

    In stark contrast, Elam’s Geadis Geadi quickly dismissed the notion, stating a firm “no” when posed the same question, indicating a divergence in views among Cyprus’ political representatives. Notably, two other MEPs, Akel’s Giorgos Georgiou and Disy’s Michalis Hadjipantela, did not participate in the video discussion, with Haris noting that only those who consented to appear were included.

    Despite these progressive responses, same-sex marriage remains illegal in Cyprus. However, civil unions for same-sex couples have been permitted since 2016. According to the Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, there are currently 415 same-sex couples in civil unions across the island.

    Cyprus stands as one of seven EU member states that do not recognise same-sex marriage. Unlike five of its counterparts—Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovakia—Cyprus does not have a constitutional prohibition against it. This legal landscape shifted somewhat in November 2022, when the European Court of Justice ruled that all EU member states must acknowledge same-sex marriages conducted in jurisdictions where they are lawful. Consequently, a couple married in a recognised jurisdiction must be regarded as married in Cyprus if they visit the island.

  • Kombos Urges EU to Foster Cooperation and Dialogue with the US

    Kombos Urges EU to Foster Cooperation and Dialogue with the US

    Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos emphasised the importance of maintaining a forward-looking cooperation and constructive dialogue with the United States. Speaking on Wednesday, he stated that this longstanding partnership must be preserved, particularly in times of uncertainty.

    • The overarching goal remains clear: to avoid escalation, which could detrimentally affect both the EU and US, as well as transatlantic relations.

    Kombos highlighted the need to focus on areas of convergence while also addressing contentious issues. “We seek to maintain a forward-looking cooperation and a constructive dialogue with the United States,” he remarked.

    Concerns over Greenland’s status have raised tensions, especially following previous demands from former President Donald Trump for the territory to be transferred to US control. Kombos noted that the EU has been following these developments closely, advocating for sincerity and stability in fundamental values and respect for geopolitical integrity.

    He expressed full solidarity with Denmark regarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. These statements came after European Affairs Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna praised the EU’s unity and resolve in response to Trump’s Greenland comments during a European general affairs council meeting in Brussels.

    Raouna stated, “The EU acted with unity, with resolve, demonstrating that even in the most challenging of circumstances, it remains committed to upholding international legality and territorial integrity.” She underscored the necessity of maintaining strong relations with the US while conveying a clear message of unity and determination from the EU.

    As the holder of the Council of the EU’s rotating presidency, Cyprus is focusing on dialogue and diplomacy, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical developments. Raouna’s remarks came alongside President Nikos Christodoulides’ assertion that EU-US relations have not been irreparably harmed by Trump’s rhetoric.

    Christodoulides stated, “We are here to de-escalate, not to escalate,” while reiterating the EU’s commitment to finding positive pathways forward without undermining the sovereignty of any member state. He stressed that the EU respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Denmark and understands the implications of such violations more than any other member state.

    The overarching goal remains clear: to avoid escalation, which could detrimentally affect both the EU and US, as well as transatlantic relations.

  • EU Must Act on Gaza, Says Cyprus Foreign Minister

    EU Must Act on Gaza, Says Cyprus Foreign Minister

    The European Union “cannot remain mere observers” on the matter of Gaza, stated Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos during a session with the European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee on Wednesday.

    • “Efforts are being made by Brussels to formulate a common position and stance in this regard,” he said, adding that these conversations “have not yet reached a conclusion.”

    Kombos emphasised the need for the EU to coordinate its efforts fully and act based on international law. He highlighted Cyprus’s significant contributions in humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Amalthea humanitarian aid corridor. “We must move in full coordination and on the basis of international law,” he asserted.

    His remarks come in light of the Cypriot government’s recent announcements regarding its potential participation in the United States’ Gaza Board of Peace. Last week, Kombos indicated that Cyprus would await a unified EU position before deciding on involvement, noting that discussions in Brussels to formulate a common stance are ongoing.

    “Efforts are being made by Brussels to formulate a common position and stance in this regard,” he said, adding that these conversations “have not yet reached a conclusion.”

    Cyprus’s approach has been characterised by a careful and balanced strategy, as communicated to the American side. The Foreign Minister mentioned that the government is maintaining a “particularly positive approach” towards the prospect of joining the Board of Peace, which seeks to address the complex issues facing Gaza.

    There have been reports that Cyprus received an invitation to join the board. According to Bloomberg, however, each participating country may be required to pay a membership fee of $1 billion. This claim was later addressed by Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis, who clarified that the reports do not reflect reality.

    Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin was also invited to join the board, and he confirmed the existence of the $1 billion fee. The Board of Peace is designed to include a broad coalition of countries focused on stabilising Gaza.

    The board will also have a seven-member executive team, which includes prominent figures like US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, and former British Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair. Each member will oversee critical portfolios aimed at fostering long-term success and governance in Gaza.

    Bulgarian diplomat Nickolay Mladenov, who previously served as the UN’s special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, has been appointed as the board’s high representative for Gaza. The White House stated he would serve as the on-the-ground link between the Board of Peace and a new national committee for Gaza’s administration, led by civil engineer Ali Shaath.

    In a parallel initiative, the White House has established a separate “Gaza executive board” tasked with supporting effective governance and delivering essential services aimed at promoting peace and prosperity for the region. This board includes notable members such as Sigrid Kaag, the incumbent UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

  • Guterres Expresses Disturbance Over Cyprus Problem Stalemate

    Guterres Expresses Disturbance Over Cyprus Problem Stalemate

    cyprus problem — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is “seriously disturbed” by the lack of progress on the Cyprus problem following a recent tripartite meeting. This meeting, which involved his envoy Maria Angela Holguin, President Nikos Christodoulides, and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman, was held last month to discuss ongoing issues between the island’s communities.

    According to reports by Turkish public broadcaster TRT, Guterres has pressed the Cypriot leaders to urgently implement confidence-building measures to improve relations between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots. He reportedly conveyed a strong message to Holguin, stating that without visible steps towards these measures, he would refrain from convening a larger meeting.

    Following the discussions, Holguin indicated that no immediate plans for an enlarged meeting were in place, emphasising the need for tangible results in confidence-building efforts. She remarked, “I am waiting for something more,” hinting at the lack of responsiveness from both leaders regarding her prior demands for progress.

    Despite the setbacks, Holguin maintained a positive outlook, asserting that “all processes are dynamic” and expressing her belief that progress would eventually occur. President Christodoulides echoed this sentiment, stating that he was not disappointed with the outcomes of the meeting and outlining a five-point proposal he had submitted to Holguin and Erhurman.

    Christodoulides expressed willingness to announce additional unilateral measures for the Turkish Cypriots and suggested a meeting between Greek Cypriot chief negotiator Menelaos Menelaou and Erhurman’s undersecretary, Mehmet Dana, within the next two weeks. The main aim of this meeting would be to resume negotiations.

    Erhurman, however, noted that the trust between the two communities was insufficient for a fruitful enlarged meeting at this time. He indicated that the five-point proposal presented by Christodoulides lacked new elements, reiterating previously discussed topics and asserting that Wednesday’s meeting was “useful but not very productive.”

    Holguin had previously stated that little progress had been made in confidence-building measures since her last visit to Cyprus, which has heightened concerns over the ongoing stalemate. No date has been set for her return, but there is an indication from Christodoulides that Erhurman is willing to meet independently if necessary, demonstrating an urgency to move forward.

  • Thunderstorms and Hail Forecast for Cyprus Amid Unsettled Weather

    Thunderstorms and Hail Forecast for Cyprus Amid Unsettled Weather

    Cyprus is bracing for thunderstorms and hail as unsettled weather grips the island. On Wednesday, mainly cloudy conditions will dominate the skies, with local rain expected at intervals and isolated thunderstorms likely to occur. Hail may accompany these storms, while the higher mountains anticipate snow or sleet.

    • This shift in weather patterns signals a notable change for the island, with residents advised to prepare for possible disruptions due to the thunderstorms and hail.

    Thunderstorms: Wind Patterns and Sea Conditions

    Winds will initially blow from the southeast to southwest in the morning, classified as light to moderate at 3 to 4 Beaufort. As the day progresses, these winds will gradually shift to a southwest to northwest direction, maintaining the same intensity. Coastal areas in the southwest, west, and north will experience temporary gusts, escalating to moderate to strong winds of 4 to 5 Beaufort.

    Temperature Expectations

    As for temperatures, they are projected to reach approximately 15°C inland and 16°C along the coast, with the higher mountains seeing a drop to around 6°C. The evening will continue to see mainly cloudy skies, with isolated rain primarily affecting the west and north coasts. Winds in the evening will also shift to southwest and northwest, remaining light to moderate.

    Forecast for the Coming Days

    Looking ahead to Thursday, the island can expect similar weather conditions, with mainly cloudy skies and the possibility of isolated thunderstorms. Hail may again fall during storms, and snow or sleet is anticipated in the higher elevations. The forecast for Friday and Saturday suggests a continuation of cloudy skies with local rain and isolated thunderstorms, as well as the potential for hail and further snowfall in elevated areas.

    Increasing Winds and Temperature Trends

    On Saturday, Cyprus will experience strong to very strong winds from the southwest, which may affect outdoor activities and travel. However, temperatures are projected to rise gradually, moving closer to and slightly above the seasonal average as the weekend progresses.

    This shift in weather patterns signals a notable change for the island, with residents advised to prepare for possible disruptions due to the thunderstorms and hail.

  • Sahara Dust Episode Hits Cyprus with Record Levels

    Sahara Dust Episode Hits Cyprus with Record Levels

    sahara dust — The Sahara dust episode has reached Cyprus, bringing record-high concentrations that have significantly impacted air quality and visibility across the island. The Cyprus Atmospheric Remote Sensing Observatory (CARO), part of the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence, reported on Tuesday that dust levels in the lower atmosphere exceeded 2,000 μgr/m³.

    • The observatory continues to monitor the dust concentrations and provide updates as the situation evolves, emphasising the need for public awareness and precautionary measures.

    The dense particles are primarily concentrated within the first two kilometres above ground, causing vertical visibility to drop to less than one kilometre. This phenomenon, which began in recent days, is expected to peak in Limassol during Tuesday evening, as indicated by the MONARCH dust forecast model.

    According to CARO, ground-level dust concentrations could reach 500 μgr/m³, a staggering ten times higher than the safety limits set by the Department of Labour Inspection. The observatory noted, “The current episode significantly affects air quality and visibility.”

    Weather conditions have contributed to this dust storm, with a system that has also brought rainfall to some areas of Cyprus. Meteorologists predict this may lead to “wet deposition,” a process where rain helps to clear the suspended dust from the atmosphere more rapidly.

    While the dust is expected to gradually dissipate by Thursday morning, another wave of dust is anticipated to return later that evening, prolonging the adverse conditions. In light of these events, the Department of Labour Inspection has advised vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities during this period.

    Employers are also urged to implement necessary measures to safeguard workers exposed to outdoor conditions. The situation has escalated as cities like Paphos and Larnaca experience dust levels triple the legal limit.

    The observatory continues to monitor the dust concentrations and provide updates as the situation evolves, emphasising the need for public awareness and precautionary measures.

  • Slur — Fidias Panayiotou Faces Backlash for Slur Against Paralympic Athletes

    Slur — Fidias Panayiotou Faces Backlash for Slur Against Paralympic Athletes

    slur — slur — MEP Fidias Panayiotou has issued a public apology after using a derogatory term to describe Paralympic athletes with intellectual disabilities. This incident, which took place during a podcast recorded on 29 November with para-athlete Loizos Chrysanthou, has sparked widespread condemnation from various organisations.

    In the podcast, Panayiotou referred to athletes in the S14 category as “pellous”—a term that translates to fools or madmen. The remark quickly drew criticism, prompting the Cyprus Psychologists Association to respond strongly. On Wednesday, they condemned the comments, stating that they represent a clear example of devaluing human existence.

    In a follow-up video, Panayiotou acknowledged the outrage, saying, “They all rushed to eat me. To tell you the truth, this time they were right to do so.” He admitted that he should not have used such a term to describe any disability or illness, framing his apology as a sign of strength. However, the Psychologists Association rejected his defence, asserting that the excuse of unawareness should not be tolerated. They emphasised that respect stems from upbringing and character, criticising Panayiotou for shaming his office and constituents.

    Furthering the dialogue, the association pointed out that the terminology used by the MEP reflects a deficit in personal values and a shallow personality. Their statement highlighted the unacceptable nature of such comments coming from someone in a high-ranking political position.

    Adding another layer to the controversy, Panayiotou suggested that the backlash may be politically motivated, citing recent polls indicating that his party, “Direct Democracy”, has surpassed 10 per cent support. This claim was met with further criticism from the Cyprus Confederation of Organisations of the Disabled (CCOD), who issued an urgent press release labelling his assertion an insult. They emphasised that the outrage over his comments is a matter of human rights rather than political manoeuvring.

    The CCOD also represented para-athlete Marios Philippou, who has made it clear that he does not consent to his image being used in Panayiotou’s apology video. They articulated that attributing political motives to those advocating for fundamental human rights indicates a serious democratic deficit.

    In light of the backlash, Panayiotou has expressed a willingness to support individuals with disabilities, announcing plans for his next visitor group to the European Parliament to include people with disabilities. He has invited suggestions on how to better support this community, hoping to shift the focus from the controversy to constructive action.

  • Storm warning: Met Department Alerts Cyprus of Storms and Mountain Snowfall

    Storm warning: Met Department Alerts Cyprus of Storms and Mountain Snowfall

    storm warning — storm warning — The Met Department has issued a warning about unstable weather conditions across Cyprus, with isolated thunderstorms and snowfall expected on the highest peaks. This weather pattern will persist until Thursday, affecting daily life and outdoor activities.

    Storm warning: Weak Low-Pressure System Influences Weather

    A weak low-pressure system is responsible for the impending weather changes. Starting today, the region will experience increasingly cloudy skies as the system moves in. Initially, Tuesday will begin with isolated showers, primarily concentrated in the northern and western parts of the island.

    Forecasted Conditions for Tuesday

    As the day progresses, conditions are expected to deteriorate. By the evening, local rain and isolated thunderstorms are likely to develop, bringing the potential for snow or sleet on the highest reaches of the Troodos mountains. These mountain areas are forecasted to see the most significant winter weather.

    Wind and Temperature Expectations

    Winds are predicted to strengthen in the afternoon, blowing from the southwest at four to five Beaufort. This increase in wind speed will contribute to changes in sea conditions, with the sea state expected to transition from slight to moderate.

    Temperature levels are another aspect of the forecast. Inland areas will experience maximum temperatures reaching around 16°C, while coastal regions may see a slightly higher maximum of 17°C. However, temperatures in the higher mountains are anticipated to struggle to exceed 7°C, presenting a stark contrast to the milder conditions elsewhere on the island.

    Wednesday’s Continued Unsettled Weather

    The unsettled weather pattern will continue into Wednesday. Forecasters report that further showers are likely, accompanied by a slight drop in temperatures as the low-pressure system remains in the area. Residents are advised to prepare for challenging conditions, particularly in elevated regions.

    Gradual Recovery Expected by Friday

    Despite the challenging weather conditions this week, the Department of Meteorology has indicated that a gradual improvement is expected by Friday. Temperatures are projected to rise slightly above the seasonal average for late January, offering some relief from the current instability.

    Advice for Residents and Visitors

    • Stay updated with local weather forecasts and alerts from the Department of Meteorology.
    • Prepare for potential travel disruptions, especially in mountainous areas due to snowfall.
    • Exercise caution during thunderstorms and heavy rain.

    Looking Ahead: Long-Term Weather Patterns

    While this week’s weather will be marked by instability, it is essential to consider the longer-term outlook. According to the Met Department, the region may experience heavy rain over the coming three weeks, indicating that residents should stay attentive to further forecasts.

    As weather patterns evolve, the Department will continue to provide updates, allowing residents and visitors to plan accordingly. With winter still in full swing, the potential for further storms and cold weather remains a significant aspect of life in Cyprus during this season.