Nicosia: Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made in implementing government support measures for those affected by the recent wildfires in the Limassol district. Speaking to the Council of Ministers at the weekly meeting, he highlighted the importance of executing the government’s decisions in full to aid those impacted by the disaster.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides noted the Ministry of the Interior’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of distributing the lump sum compensation to affected residents. Out of 295 cases, 236 beneficiaries have already received payments. The President stressed the need for prompt compensation for all affected individuals by the week’s end. He also mentioned that the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber has completed cost assessments for about 300 damaged buildings, paving the way for financial aid to those with primary residences needing repairs.
The President underscored the necessity of swiftly restoring homes and businesses to help residents return to their daily routines. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Commerce to support businesses by compensating for raw materials, goods, and equipment replacement. He praised the electricity authority (EAC) for restoring power to 92% of affected areas and noted the decision to subsidize electricity bills up to £500 for affected customers.
In agriculture, President Christodoulides called for expedited compensation for farmers and livestock breeders, with payments already made to over 775 individuals. He highlighted the 470 applications received for schemes focusing on reactivation, infrastructure restoration, and equipment replacement, urging the continuation and completion of these efforts.
The President also addressed flood protection projects, urging immediate action in areas needing intervention. For the Ministry of Labour, he highlighted the collection of data for workers unable to work due to fire damage, with more than 100 workers already responding. The Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare has identified 115 families in need of emergency financial assistance, ensuring continued social support.
The Deputy Ministry of Tourism’s scheme for one-time financial aid related to accommodations was also emphasized. According to President Christodoulides, the Ministry of Transport planned to propose measures for vehicles and machinery destroyed in the fire.
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades announced financial assistance for owners of damaged vehicles and machinery, with damage estimates reaching approximately £655,000. The deadline for damage claims is August 17, with possible extensions if needed.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis detailed financial support for self-catering accommodations affected by the fire, estimating aid for around 66 accommodations, totaling approximately £200,000.
Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou confirmed the approval of lump sum payments for 236 beneficiaries, with equipment cost lists finalized for complete damage restoration. The Ministry of Agriculture reported £2,299,147 in financial aid to 775 farmers and livestock breeders, with ongoing payments contingent on progress in restoration work.