Cyprus Faces EU Court Action Over Environmental Breaches

Cyprus is facing legal repercussions in the European Court due to environmental breaches, as highlighted in a report by the Audit Office. The report points to delays in complying with European directives and potential financial penalties.

The main cases concern non-compliance with Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and the Landfill Directive. Despite warnings since 2021, protection decrees for Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) have not been issued. Furthermore, the restoration of illegal landfills in Vati (Limassol) and Kotsiatis (Nicosia), for which Cyprus was convicted in 2013, remains incomplete.

The Audit Office is also examining unauthorized constructions and illegal livestock facilities, including a unit in Agios Ioannis, Paphos, operating without a license since 2015. The Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges delays, attributing them to bureaucracy and overlapping responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the Ministry reports that it took into account the recommendations of the Audit Office and did not proceed with the renewal of the lease agreement for a second period. However, the lessee has not vacated the property, resulting in legal action being initiated.