Sense of security a non-negotiable goal, says Justice Minister
Fact: Cyprus is among the EU countries with the lowest performance in the time required to resolve civil cases.
Marios Hartsiotis
Agios Sylas fire front improving, authorities say [PHOTOS+VIDEO]
![Agios Sylas fire front improving, authorities say [PHOTOS+VIDEO]](https://ch.jfdi.cc/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/agios-sylas-fire-front-improving-authorities-say-photosvideo.jpg)
A fire broke out in the Agios Sylas area of Limassol, prompting a large operation by the Fire Service and other services to contain it. Efforts are ongoing for complete containment, with the situation having significantly improved. Civil Defence evacuated residences, businesses, and livestock farms in the Polemidia area. Three aircraft and multiple firefighting teams were deployed to combat the blaze, with ground forces creating firebreaks despite strong winds. The Minister of Justice and Public Order oversaw operations at the forward command centre, and the Limassol-Troodos Road has been reopened. Drivers are urged to exercise caution in the area.
Exhibition of paintings, of 20th century saints
A brand-new exhibition at Apocalypse Gallery in Nicosia will present a unique collection of paintings of saints of the 20th century by artist Ermioni Zachariadou. The exhibition will open on May 29 at 7pm in the presence of the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Marios Hartsiotis. The exhibition will be open until June 8 and will include a book with portraits and biographies of each saint.
Phone blocking system for prisons delayed again
A new system deactivating mobile phones in the immediate vicinity of the central prisons will be installed and operational in one-and-a-half years. The previous deactivation system had been problematic, and delays in implementation were caused by the emergence of 5G technology. Additionally, steps are being taken to alleviate overcrowding at the prisons, including the construction of a new building at the open prison site and a completely new prisons complex by 2027. Legislation concerning the functioning of the attorney-general’s office is also being drafted based on a study commissioned by the government.
Ministerial meeting addresses fireworks regulations
A meeting was held on Maundy Thursday with the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, along with the Minister of Justice and Public Order and the Police. They discussed tightening the framework for the use of fireworks following recent fires in Limassol and Paphos provinces caused by fireworks. Permits for fireworks have been revoked temporarily, and further discussions and meetings will take place to address the issue and potentially implement stricter measures. The investigation into the recent fire in Limassol province is ongoing, and statements will be made once it is completed.
Ministers meet on fireworks regulation
Fact: Agriculture and Justice Ministers Maria Panayiotou and Marios Hartsiotis held a meeting with representatives of the police force to review the framework governing fireworks usage and discuss potential enhancements. Panayiotou announced the revocation of all permits for fireworks following large fires near Limassol and Paphos caused by explosives and fireworks. They will decide how to address the whole issue in the coming days.
They burned the forest with a flare but it was an unfortunate moment
The first major forest fire of the year was started by a flare that was accidentally thrown into a quarry and flew out, igniting the surrounding area. The Mines Service took responsibility for the mistake. The summer forest fire fighting period has been extended to eight months to address the expanding high-risk periods due to climate change. The government plans to gradually purchase ten fire-fighting aircraft in the next five years. During the recent forest fire, only one fire-fighting aircraft was deployed, highlighting the need for more resources. The police are investigating the relationships of individuals involved in recent violent incidents. Despite efforts to combat organized crime, leaks to journalists are a concern for some officials.
Our View: Politicians can, ’t resist the urge to engage in drug alarmism
Politicians and media tend to blow matters related to drug use out of proportion, despite the fact that statistics do not support the idea of a drug problem in schools. In the past three years, the Drug Squad sent an average of one student per public school to detox programs each year, indicating that the issue may not be as widespread as portrayed. Youth often agree to participate in these programs as a condition for not being charged, rather than because they are addicts in need of help.
Preparations stepped up ahead of wildfire season
Preparations are being stepped up ahead of this year’s wildfire season in Cyprus. The government is implementing a fire and crisis management system, purchasing new equipment, and hiring 259 new firefighters. There will also be an army of volunteer firefighters for the first time. The central message of fire safety week is to protect the land from danger. Modern technological systems have been installed for monitoring and early detection of fires. Over 110,000 people have signed up for the government’s “fire watcher” scheme to report any suspicious activities that may cause fires.
Cabinet to decide on purchasing additional firefighting equipment
The commencement of Phase II of the holistic system for fire prevention and crisis management is in an advanced stage, with proposals for necessary equipment procurement soon to be submitted for approval. 259 new firefighters are being recruited, and volunteer firefighters will assist during this year’s fire season. The Fire Service collaborates with CNP Insurance to raise awareness about fire prevention. The Minister highlighted the importance of protecting the environment from wildfires and mentioned the upgrading of Fire Stations and infrastructure as a top priority. Efforts to strengthen human resources in the Fire Service are continuous, with the recruitment process for new firefighters nearing completion. Neighbourhood Watch observers are called upon to assist in timely detection and notification of fires and reporting suspicious activities that may lead to wildfires.