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  • Forestry Department Faces Backlash Over Akamas Roadworks

    Forestry Department Faces Backlash Over Akamas Roadworks

    akamas roadworks — akamas roadworks — The forestry department’s handling of roadworks in the Akamas national forest park has drawn sharp criticism from several environmental organisations, who labelled its recent statements as ‘arrogant’ and ‘provocative’.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    On Wednesday, the forestry department expressed satisfaction with a report that sanctioned the resumption of roadworks, stating it felt both “satisfied and justified” about the re-evaluation process. This prompted a vehement response from groups including Terra Cypria, BirdLife Cyprus, Cyprus Wildlife Society, and Cyprus Natural Coastline, who issued a press release on Thursday detailing their concerns.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    According to the environment department, the green light for restarting the roadworks came on August 12, after the project had been stalled since October 2023 due to widespread criticism. The department assured the public that it had adhered to all environmental conditions necessary for the project’s continuation. However, environmental advocates have contested this claim, asserting that the forestry department has ignored significant violations of environmental regulations.

    In their statement, the environmental organisations pointed out that the forestry department had “violated a multitude of legally binding and essential conditions” of the environmental approval for both the sustainable development plan and the initial phase of road network improvements. They reminded the department that since the halt in construction, multiple parties—including independent experts and government bodies—have acknowledged these violations.

    “The arrogance and provocation that the forestry department continues to show is truly impressive,” the organisations stated, questioning the department’s confidence in its re-evaluation findings. They noted that other stakeholders, apart from the forestry department, have identified serious infringements, which raises concerns about the department’s self-assessment.

    Specific grievances include the demolition of support walls along protected areas, the removal of a critical water pipeline, and a comprehensive re-evaluation of water supply works that affect the region’s ecology. These actions have prompted calls for accountability from the environmental organisations, who urged the agriculture minister, Maria Panayiotou, to intervene and address what they termed an “unacceptable stance” from the forestry department.

    In a related development, the Cyprus Environmental Movement prepared a memorandum for President Nikos Christodoulides, highlighting the irreversible damage already inflicted on the Akamas environment. They expressed concerns about the ability of those responsible for the initial works to monitor compliance moving forward, calling for transparency regarding ongoing investigations into the matter.

    “Experience shows that environmental destruction, as witnessed in this case, cannot be restored,” the movement cautioned, pressing for the identification of those responsible for the ongoing environmental degradation. They demand public access to the findings of all administrative and disciplinary investigations related to the Akamas project.

    The environment department’s report earlier this month noted that measures would be implemented to minimise the environmental footprint of the roadworks in Akamas, with the first phase initially commencing in September 2022. However, the projects were paused in October 2023 due to backlash from environmental groups, leading to a cabinet-ordered reassessment in December 2023. A special ecological assessment was subsequently released in March 2024, focusing on the potential impacts of the roadworks on protected species and habitats.

    Despite the assurances from the forestry department, the environmental organisations remain sceptical about the future of the Akamas national forest park. They continue to advocate for accountability and transparency, urging the government to guarantee the protection of habitats and the environment, as well as the welfare of the local community.

  • Four-Year-Old Intubated After Near-Drowning in Hotel Pool

    Four-Year-Old Intubated After Near-Drowning in Hotel Pool

    The four-year-old child who was found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Chloraka, Paphos, is currently intubated and in stable condition at Makarios hospital in Nicosia.

    • The four-year-old child who was found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Chloraka, Paphos, is currently intubated and in stable condition at Makarios hospital in Nicosia.
    • As investigations continue, it highlights the importance of vigilance around water, particularly with young children, who can quickly find themselves in dangerous situations.

    The incident occurred on Wednesday at around 2pm, shortly after the boy and his family had arrived in Cyprus from Israel. According to police, the child, who was momentarily out of his mother’s sight, entered the deeper part of the pool while she attended to his younger sibling.

    Paphos police deputy head of operations, Michalis Nicolaou, reported that the boy was discovered at the bottom of the pool by a woman who quickly retrieved him and called for help. A lifeguard was present at the hotel at the time of the incident.

    The boy was initially taken to Paphos general hospital, where he was intubated due to the severity of his condition. He was subsequently transferred to Makarios hospital for further treatment. The police were alerted to the situation at 3.15pm, prompting officers to visit the hotel and begin their investigation.

    The mother explained that she had believed her son was safely sitting at the edge of the paddling pool when he wandered into the deeper water. Despite the immediate response from bystanders and medical personnel, the incident has raised concerns about pool safety and supervision.

    As investigations continue, it highlights the importance of vigilance around water, particularly with young children, who can quickly find themselves in dangerous situations.

  • Cyprus Faces Lifeguard Shortage Amid Public Safety Concerns

    Cyprus Faces Lifeguard Shortage Amid Public Safety Concerns

    lifeguard shortage — Cyprus is grappling with a lifeguard shortage that has raised significant public safety concerns, particularly at its organised beaches. Currently, lifeguard towers are operational at only 91 of the island’s 182 organised beaches, according to Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou and industry officials. With approximately 20 rescue jet skis available across this network, the Pan-Cyprian Lifeguard Federation has pointed out critical infrastructure deficiencies that threaten both safety and tourism.

    • As Cyprus prepares for the busy tourist season, the lifeguard federation's concerns underscore the urgent need for improvements in staffing and equipment to ensure the safety of all beach visitors.

    Lifeguard shortage: Infrastructure Gaps and Safety Risks

    The lifeguard federation has highlighted alarming gaps in infrastructure, including closed lifeguard towers in key areas such as Paphos, Polis Chrysochous, Famagusta, and Larnaca. These closures come at a time when public safety is paramount, particularly as the beaches serve a vital role in Cyprus’s tourism-dependent economy.

    Statistics on Sea-Related Incidents

    According to the federation, there have been 48 sea-related deaths in the past five years; however, these figures include incidents that were not solely due to drowning. Currently, the lifeguard workforce consists of 107 permanent lifeguards supplemented by 270 seasonal positions, with varying contract durations approved for 2025. This staffing level raises concerns about the adequacy of resources available to ensure the safety of beachgoers.

    Call for Increased Staffing and Equipment Improvements

    Polys Pallikaros, President of the Pan-Cyprian Lifeguard Federation, has called for an increase in permanent staff to address safety concerns. He expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of rescue equipment, stating that many jet skis lack the necessary power for effective water rescues. “Ten-horsepower speedboats cannot be utilised even for patrol during rough seas, let alone for rescuing people,” Pallikaros noted, pointing out that rescues often occur under adverse weather conditions.

    Lack of Consultation on Equipment Choices

    Pallikaros revealed that the federation was not consulted about the selection of rescue equipment, questioning the effectiveness of the government’s equipment allocation. He emphasised that rescue vessels require comprehensive supporting infrastructure, including platforms, storage, and maintenance facilities, to be effective.

    Challenges in Seasonal Employment

    Recruitment challenges compound the issues related to lifeguard staffing. The seasonal nature of employment is particularly problematic in regions like Paphos, where limited contract durations discourage potential applicants. Pallikaros questioned the desirability of short-term contracts, asking, “Would you be interested in employment for three, four or even six months and then seek work afterwards?” He advocates for an increase in permanent positions to provide stability and encourage recruitment.

    Funding for Equipment Upgrades

    The Interior Ministry has allocated €500,000 for equipment upgrades from 2026 to 2028, which includes the procurement of new gear for lifeguards and necessary maintenance and replacement of existing facilities. This funding aims to enhance the safety measures in place at organised beaches, although the federation remains cautious about the impact of these changes.

    Proposed Extension of Beach Operating Seasons

    The federation has also proposed extending beach operations from the current six-month season to eight or ten months for high-traffic locations. This extension would not only provide employment continuity for lifeguards but also ensure that experienced personnel are available to safeguard the public during peak tourist seasons.

    Public Compliance and Parental Responsibility

    Pallikaros stressed the importance of parental responsibility and public compliance with safety protocols. Recent incidents, including a child’s rescue in the Paphos area and a dangerous situation in Protaras where swimmers ignored red flag warnings, underscore the need for public awareness. “When someone who lives in the sea and knows its behaviour and dangers gives guidance, we should not disregard their instructions,” he asserted.

    Understanding Safety Markers

    He clarified that swimming buoys are intended to mark vessel exclusion zones rather than denote safe swimming depths. Swimmers are advised to remain within designated areas to avoid the risk of collisions with boats, highlighting the necessity for clearer communication of safety measures to beachgoers.

    As Cyprus prepares for the busy tourist season, the lifeguard federation’s concerns underscore the urgent need for improvements in staffing and equipment to ensure the safety of all beach visitors.

  • Trilateral cooperation — Greek and Syrian Foreign Ministers Explore Trilateral Cooperation Involving Cyprus

    Trilateral cooperation — Greek and Syrian Foreign Ministers Explore Trilateral Cooperation Involving Cyprus

    Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani met in Athens to discuss a trilateral cooperation scheme involving Cyprus. The meeting, announced by the Greek foreign ministry on Wednesday, reflects a strategic intention to enhance regional collaboration.

    Trilateral cooperation: Commitment to Regional Cooperation

    During the meeting, both ministers underscored their commitment to fostering regional cooperation through the establishment of a trilateral format that would include Cyprus. Lana Zochiou, spokesperson for the Greek foreign ministry, relayed this intent, stating, “The ministers confirmed their will to promote regional cooperation by establishing a trilateral format with the participation of the Republic of Cyprus.”

    Potential Meeting at the UN General Assembly

    The first meeting of the proposed trilateral partnership could occur during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, scheduled from September 9 to September 29 in New York. This platform presents an opportunity for further dialogue and the potential for solidifying agreements among the involved parties.

    Awaiting Concrete Measures

    While the discussion marks a significant step in diplomatic relations, specific details outlining how the trilateral cooperation will manifest remain undisclosed. The absence of concrete measures raises questions about the practical implications of the proposed collaboration.

    Cyprus’s Role in Regional Diplomacy

    Cyprus has been actively pursuing better relations with Syria, as highlighted by Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos in a statement made in May. He noted that Cyprus was “actively pursuing good neighbourly relations” with Syria and advocated for the lifting of sanctions on the nation. Given Cyprus’s geographic proximity to Syria—approximately 350km—this initiative could facilitate a more robust interaction between the two countries.

    Addressing Migration Challenges

    Amid rising concerns over asylum seekers and irregular migrants arriving in Cyprus, the government has initiated efforts to engage European Union partners regarding safety declarations for parts of Syria. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou labelled the situation as “alarming,” prompting Cyprus to lead a group of EU members to explore this issue further.

    Collaborative Efforts with Greece

    In a recent meeting with Greek Migration Minister Dimitris Kairidis, Ioannou emphasised the necessity for “joint actions” to effectively manage the ongoing migration situation. This collaboration aligns with Greece’s expressed intent to join the Cyprus-led EU Syria Group, aiming to address the complexities of migration flows in the region.

    International Meeting on Migration

    In mid-May 2024, an international meeting of interior ministers was convened in Cyprus, featuring representatives from Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Malta, and Poland. This gathering aimed to discuss coordinated strategies to tackle the pressing issues related to migration and asylum seekers.

    Looking Ahead

    The discussions between Greece and Syria, with Cyprus as a participating nation, signal a potential shift in regional dynamics. While the specifics of the trilateral cooperation scheme are yet to be defined, these diplomatic efforts could pave the way for enhanced collaboration in addressing shared challenges.

    The ongoing dialogue between these countries illustrates the importance of regional partnerships in navigating complex political and humanitarian issues. As the situation develops, the involvement of Cyprus alongside Greece and Syria could prove pivotal in shaping future cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.

  • Gesy Reforms Set to Enhance Public Hospitals in Cyprus

    Gesy Reforms Set to Enhance Public Hospitals in Cyprus

    gesy reforms — gesy reforms — Cyprus’ national health system, Gesy, is set to receive further reforms aimed at strengthening public hospitals and digitising health services, as announced by the government on Wednesday evening.

    The presidency of the Republic of Cyprus emphasised that the substantial strengthening of the health sector and the provision of higher quality services to all residents are fundamental pillars of policy and top priorities for the administration. This commitment marks a pivotal moment for public healthcare in the country.

    According to the latest Eurostat data, Cyprus boasts the lowest rate of unmet medical needs in the entire European Union. Just 0.2 per cent of the Cypriot population reported that their need for medical examination or treatment went unaddressed, significantly lower than the EU average of 3.8 per cent. The presidency hailed this achievement, noting it indicates a “functional, effective and accessible health system.”

    “This significant achievement confirms that Gesy essentially covers the needs of residents,” the presidency stated, highlighting that the 0.2 per cent of unmet medical needs serves as a strong indicator of social well-being. It is a testament to the effectiveness of current health policies, which are yielding tangible results.

    Health Minister Michael Damianos has previously affirmed the system’s long-term viability, referring to Gesy as the biggest reform in the health sector since the establishment of the Republic. In early June, he stated, “Gesy is here to stay,” underscoring a commitment to continuous evaluation and improvement of the system.

    As part of these ongoing reforms, the government aims to systematically address any weaknesses in the system, with a series of new legislations designed to safeguard Gesy. Minister Damianos has expressed an intention to enhance the daily experience for citizens visiting hospitals, which reflects a proactive approach to public health management.

    Since its inception, Gesy has registered over a million beneficiaries, facilitating more than 21 million visits to general practitioners and specialists alike. By May, there had been over 3.6 million visits to radiological diagnostic centres, 17 million to laboratories, and 43 million to pharmacies, along with an additional 1.3 million visits to dentists. Furthermore, around 360,000 surgical procedures have been performed under the system.

    The legislative groundwork for Gesy was laid in 2001, but the system officially began operating in June 2019. This evolution in healthcare underscores a significant shift towards modernising public health services in Cyprus, aiming to meet the needs of the population more effectively.

  • Love is Blind Returns with a Romantic Getaway on the Island of Love

    Love is Blind Returns with a Romantic Getaway on the Island of Love

    Love is Blind returns with a fresh season, whisking couples away to the stunning Cap St George Hotel and Resort in Peyia, Cyprus, famously known as the island of love.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    • Love is Blind returns with a fresh season, whisking couples away to the stunning Cap St George Hotel and Resort in Peyia, Cyprus, famously known as the island of love.

    As Netflix premiered the new season on Wednesday, presenter Emma Willis welcomed viewers with a picturesque view of the Mediterranean, saying, “It’s the island of love.” The show, renowned for its unique format where participants date without seeing each other, now offers couples a chance to bond during a pre-marriage honeymoon.

    This new setting marks the first time the 30 participants—15 women and 15 men—meet face-to-face after forming connections in the infamous ‘pods’. The anticipation of seeing each other in person adds to the excitement and tension of the show.

    “This is like a dream,” exclaimed contestant Ashleigh, gazing out from her hotel room alongside her potential fiancé, Billy. With Cyprus’s breathtaking views as their backdrop, the couples navigate the complexities of their new relationships.

    In a candid moment, Kal and Sarover enjoy a swim in the hotel pool, where Kal admits that Sarover isn’t his usual type, yet he appreciates their time together, embodying the show’s essence of unexpected connections.

    The stunning visuals of Cyprus play a significant role in the series, with the backdrop of the sun setting over the sea, complemented by music that evokes feelings of paradise. British production company CPL has successfully showcased the island’s allure, making it an ideal locale for romantic escapades.

    Cyprus’s reputation as a romantic destination is no accident. The island’s historical ties to the goddess Aphrodite have made it increasingly popular for international reality shows, particularly those centred around love. In the past two years, the island has hosted various productions, including the UK’s Love Rat and The Only Way Is Essex, as well as the Danish Roast On The Coast.

    Looking ahead, the Swedish edition of Love is Blind is set to film some segments at the Atlantis Gardens Resort in Mazotos, Larnaca, in 2024, further solidifying Cyprus’s status as a hotspot for romance-oriented reality television.

  • School supplies — Parents Encouraged to Shop Smart for School Supplies as Prices Fluctuate

    School supplies — Parents Encouraged to Shop Smart for School Supplies as Prices Fluctuate

    Parents preparing their children for the new school year are being urged to plan ahead, shop smart, and compare prices, as a recent survey by the Cyprus Consumers Association uncovered significant variations in school supply costs across the island.

    The survey, which included both online and in-store assessments at ten different retail outlets, revealed that school bags can range dramatically in price, starting from as low as €4.99 and soaring up to €209.95. This stark difference is attributed to factors such as size, design, and brand.

    School supplies: Wide Range of Prices for Essential Items

    Other essential school supplies also displayed a broad spectrum of prices. Pencil cases were found to cost anywhere from €0.71 to €44.95, while notebooks varied between €0.32 and €12.99. Even basic items like pencils, pens, and markers showed a price range from €0.19 to €14.99.

    Comparative Price Changes from Last Year

    When compared to the previous year, the survey noted that prices for some items have decreased. Pencil cases and notebooks saw reductions of 10% and 18% respectively. In contrast, entry-level school bags, markers, pens, and folders experienced notable increases, with price hikes of 25%, 46%, and 27% respectively. Interestingly, while the cost of premium notebooks rose by 30%, some higher-end pencil cases and folders saw a slight decline in price.

    The Importance of Price Comparison

    The Cyprus Consumers Association highlighted that some retailers offer lower prices online than in their physical stores, which underscores the necessity of price comparison. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this by exploring both online and in-store options before making purchases.

    Involving Children in the Shopping Process

    In a bid to help families navigate the back-to-school shopping experience, the association advised parents to involve their children in preparing shopping lists. This practice can help distinguish between essential items and unnecessary purchases. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to prioritise quality and safety when selecting school supplies, such as avoiding products that resemble food or have food scents.

    “The back-to-school period is an opportunity to teach our children how to navigate the market and avoid unnecessary consumption,” the association stated, reminding consumers to check each retailer’s return policy before finalising their purchases.

  • Pending Takata Airbag Recalls Affect 33,000 Vehicles in Cyprus

    Pending Takata Airbag Recalls Affect 33,000 Vehicles in Cyprus

    Approximately 33,000 cars are pending recalls due to defective Takata airbags, according to the Cyprus Road Transport Department (RTD). This number comes from an initial 81,000 cases, and with an early October deadline approaching, officials are urging vehicle owners to act promptly.

    The RTD’s recent updates highlight delays caused by summer closures at several companies involved in the recall process. Of the outstanding cases, around 5,000 vehicles are currently immobilised, while an additional 2,000 have been deregistered. This situation effectively reduces the actual number of vehicles needing urgent repairs before the upcoming deadline.

    As part of the recall efforts, authorities have identified an additional 15,000 vehicles that also require attention for the same airbag defect. Owners of these vehicles have eight months from the notification date to complete necessary repairs. Repair procedures have already begun, with priority given to immobilised vehicles and those on the original recall list facing imminent deadlines.

    Takata airbag: Urgent Call for Vehicle Owners

    The RTD receives ongoing updates from companies regarding the completion rates of these recalls. Currently, multiple companies have confirmed they can accommodate appointments for repairs, yet the department stresses the importance of action from non-responsive owners to schedule their repairs as soon as possible.

    Safety Risks of Defective Airbags

    The recall programme is a critical response to the dangers posed by defective Takata airbag systems, which have the potential to cause serious injury or even death to vehicle occupants. Cyprus is joining a global initiative to resolve this pressing automotive safety issue, which has affected millions worldwide.

    Challenges in Cyprus

    Cyprus faces unique challenges in managing the recall of vehicles, particularly due to its significant “grey” vehicle market. This market includes used cars imported from other countries with minimal oversight, resulting in thousands of potentially hazardous vehicles entering circulation without proper recall notifications. Under local laws, these vehicles must be less than five years old for import, creating a gap where safety defects are not effectively communicated to owners.

    In light of this, the RTD has been focusing on addressing three serious incidents related to Takata airbag explosions within vehicles on the island, two of which were fatal. The investigation has highlighted gaps in communication and responsibility, notably a circular issued on 21 March 2017 that relieved importers of their obligation to inform owners about recalls for grey market vehicles.

    Global Context of the Takata Crisis

    The Takata airbag issue first emerged in 2010 in the United States, evolving into one of the largest automotive recalls in history, affecting over 100 million vehicles globally. The crisis stems from defective inflators that can rupture with excessive force, sending metal fragments into vehicle cabins.

    As the October deadline looms, the RTD continues to work with authorised service centres to ensure repairs can be completed timely. Companies are reporting their readiness to handle the remaining cases, but the urgency for vehicle owners to respond cannot be overstated. With safety at stake, this recall remains a top priority for both local and international authorities.

  • Four-Year-Old Intubated After Swimming Pool Incident in Paphos

    Four-Year-Old Intubated After Swimming Pool Incident in Paphos

    swimming pool — A four-year-old child was found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Chloraka, Paphos, on Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred around 2pm while the boy was on holiday in Cyprus with his parents.

    Swimming pool: Sequence of Events Leading to Hospitalisation

    According to the police, the child had been under the supervision of his 51-year-old mother. However, during a brief moment when she was tending to his younger sibling, the boy managed to slip away and entered the deeper section of the pool.

    He was discovered at the bottom of the pool by a bystander, who quickly alerted others to the situation. Emergency services were called, and the child was transported to Paphos General Hospital, where he was intubated due to the severity of his condition. Subsequently, he was transferred to Makarios Hospital in Nicosia for further treatment.

    Police Involvement and Ongoing Investigations

    The police were notified of the incident at approximately 3.15pm and promptly dispatched officers to the hotel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning. Paphos police deputy head of operations, Michalis Nicolaou, provided insights into the case, highlighting the need for vigilance in such environments.

    Community Response and Safety Concerns

    This unfortunate event has raised concerns within the local community about pool safety, particularly regarding the supervision of young children in public spaces. The hotel management has been cooperative with the police investigation, and it is expected that the circumstances will be thoroughly reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

  • Paphos hotel — Four-Year-Old Child in Critical Condition Following Paphos Hotel Pool Incident

    Paphos hotel — Four-Year-Old Child in Critical Condition Following Paphos Hotel Pool Incident

    paphos hotel — paphos hotel — A four-year-old child from Israel is in critical condition after being found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Paphos. The incident occurred on Wednesday when the child was discovered floating in the water at a resort in Chloraka during a family holiday.

    A woman, who was at the pool at the time, noticed the child and quickly jumped into action. She pulled the unconscious four-year-old from the pool and, along with the child’s mother and lifeguards, administered first aid while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

    Emergency medical personnel from Paphos Hospital responded promptly to the scene. Upon assessment, they determined that the child’s condition was serious enough to warrant an urgent transfer to Makarios Hospital in Nicosia, where specialised treatment could be provided.

    The child was intubated before being transported by ambulance to the capital. Currently, the four-year-old remains in the intensive care unit of Makarios Hospital, fighting for their life. As of now, authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances that led to this tragic incident.