Audit Service Report on Akamas: Serious Failures and Overspending

The Audit Service has published a report criticizing the Department of Forests regarding the management of projects in the Akamas National Forest Park, within the framework of the Sustainable Development Plan. The report highlights financial deviations, delays, and violations of legislation.

According to the report, the project, co-funded by the "THALIA 2021-2027" program with €16.5 million, shows significant shortcomings in its management by the Department of Forests.

Specifically, the first phase of the project, concerning the management infrastructure of the park's 14 nodes, had an initial budget of €2.8 million, but the cost has increased to €6,589,000, an increase of 135.3%. This phase remains incomplete.

The Audit Service points out that the Department of Forests did not terminate the contract with the contractor in a timely manner, despite its failures, resulting in the accumulation of claims amounting to €500,000 and the loss of liquidation of guarantees amounting to €1 million.

The report mentions violations of legislation in the procedures for assigning studies and supervisions, as well as the announcement of contracts before securing the Environmental Impact Assessment, leading to changes in the studies and delays.

Work in Akamas has been suspended by decision of the Council of Ministers.