The illegal construction of a church in the Natura 2000 Network in Cape Greco, despite the reaction of relevant government departments, shows that the violation of environmental legislation is deeply rooted in corruption.
The forestry department in Akamas is carrying out necessary maintenance of the road network and fire breaks ahead of the summer season.
The Department of Forests has been carrying out improvement and widening works on main forest roads in the Akamas National Forest Park. Environmental organizations are concerned that the procedures followed do not adhere to established guidelines, as the area is home to various endangered species and habitats. The works are part of the main road network section of ANFP Akamas, which should be reassessed by June 2024. The organizations are requesting immediate notification to the Ad-hoc Committee for the SEA and urging the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment to ensure no further works are done before a full reassessment of the Sustainable Development Plan.
The Akamas National Forest Park road projects will restart in April, as announced by Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou. The projects aim to prioritize environmental preservation. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting. The government plans to balance development with environmental conservation in the park, ensuring minimal environmental impact and visitor safety while adhering to legal requirements. A project team will be established for environmental and technical monitoring, and a steering committee will be appointed for decision-making. Consultations with NGOs and local communities will be part of the process.