Insights from the Audit Office Report on Refugee Accommodation Spending
The Cypriot government has demonstrated its commitment to providing shelter for those in need, with an Audit Office report disclosing a substantial investment in the wellbeing of Ukrainian refugees. The report details that the government’s spending reached the significant sum of approximately €40 million on refugee accommodation, primarily focusing on housing costs up to March 4, 2024. This figure reflects the nation’s dedication to humanitarian aid amidst global instability.
Other expenses included transportation and translation services, which, although a smaller portion of the expenditure, were essential in ensuring the refugees’ smooth transition into Cypriot society. These services amounted to around €8,000, highlighting the government’s attention to the comprehensive needs of the displaced individuals.
The Deputy Ministry of Tourism played a pivotal role in securing the necessary accommodation. However, this financial audit did not extend to cover additional support that may have been provided by other ministries, such as medical assistance and benefits. The Audit Office has taken this opportunity to advise the government on the importance of developing an emergency contingency plan, considering Cyprus’s strategic location and the volatile situation in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Concerns were raised regarding the initial procurement process for refugee accommodations, which involved a “negotiation without publication” approach. While no breaches of transparency or competition were found, the Audit Office suggests that standard tendering procedures should be employed where feasible to ensure best practices in public spending.
In response to the financial burden of the refugee aid programme, Cyprus has received a supportive sum of €6.7 million from the European Commission. Additionally, the management of specific accommodation contracts has been transferred to the Municipality of Paralimni since January 1, 2023, to enhance local governance.
To maintain transparency, a detailed table has been provided by the Audit Office, listing expenditures per hotel managed by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. Notably, €36,154,371.99 was spent on accommodations in 27 different hotels in Famagusta, while Paphos and a hotel in Nicosia district saw expenditures of €2,313,808.46 and €1,212,651.10 respectively. The total amount funneled into hotel accommodations stands at €39,680,831.65.
This financial overview underscores the Cypriot government’s significant role in supporting Ukrainian refugees during a critical time and sets a precedent for future humanitarian efforts.
