Nicosia: The implementation of four new permanent desalination plants in eastern Limassol, Ayia Thekla, Polis Chrysochous, and Dhekelia is underway, following a Council of Ministers decision on September 2, Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment Minister Christos Senekis has announced. The four plants are expected to have a combined production capacity of 180,000 cubic metres of water per day.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister Senekis spoke on Saturday at the Olive Festival in the village of Anglisides, located in the Larnaka district. He emphasized that the improved hydrological situation in 2026 enabled the Government to revise its initial water allocations, which led to an additional 3.5 million cubic metres of water being made available for irrigation, including the Southern Conveyor Project, following a Council of Ministers decision last June.
"Our aim is to reduce dependence on rainfall and strengthen water security," Senekis stated, highlighting a comprehensive programme of projects worth more than £200 million scheduled for implementation during the 2024-2030 period. This programme includes desalination projects, increased use of reclaimed water, measures to reduce water losses, and upgrades to water supply networks.
Senekis also discussed the Ministry's efforts towards developing a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector. The 2023-2027 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), with total funding of £454 million, serves as a significant tool in this initiative. Highlighting the strong interest in investment measures and support for young farmers, he noted that applications for subsidies have reached approximately £210 million, indicating a readiness to invest in and modernize Cyprus' agricultural sector.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and various banking institutions, a new financial instrument has been developed to facilitate farmers' access to financing on more favourable terms, Senekis added.
Looking ahead to the next Common Agricultural Policy, Senekis announced that an open consultation with the farming community will commence on October 8. This consultation aims to ensure that the upcoming CAP addresses the actual needs of Cyprus' agricultural sector.