Illegalities at Ayia Napa’s Protected Site Spark Outrage
Amidst the serene beauty of Ayia Napa’s Natura 2000 site, a storm of controversy brews over multiple illegal activities. The Cyprus’ Ecological Movement has brought to light at least 20 illegalities within this environmentally protected area. Despite the gravity of the situation, the response has been minimal, with no significant deterrent measures taken except for a nominal fine.
During a heated session at the House environment committee, MPs expressed their indignation over the flagrant disregard for environmental laws. Notable among the transgressions is the operation of a wedding venue on the protected land, a fact confirmed by Agriculture Minister Maria Xenophontos. Although the issue has been reported to relevant departments, and Xenophontos has taken steps in her former role as environment commissioner, the power to demolish illegal structures lies with the licensing authority, which in this case is the Famagusta district administration and Ayia Napa municipality.
Xenophontos emphasized that past errors do not justify ongoing illegal activities. Echoing this sentiment, a representative from Terra Cyprus pointed out that the wedding venue was constructed with a housing permit in 1993, prior to the area’s designation as protected. The spokesperson for the Ecological Movement criticized the environment department for its lack of presence in the Famagusta district and for failing to implement any serious deterrents beyond a €2,000 fine from the game fund.
The legal service has been accused of not taking proactive steps to halt these illegalities. Moreover, government officials have come under fire for their handling of an illegal monastery construction on the same site. Although building works have been ordered to cease, an appeal is pending, and the bishopric has initiated a petition to continue with the project.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that Ayia Napa’s Natura 2000 site stands at a crossroads between preservation and violation, with calls for decisive action growing louder.
