Nicosia, Cyprus. The government has paid €13 million in compensation to people affected by last year’s wildfire in the Limassol mountain region, while authorities said Cyprus is better prepared for this summer’s fire season. Officials cited additional aircraft, enhanced surveillance and updated emergency plans ahead of the peak period.
Compensation payments reviewed
The figures were presented on Thursday during a meeting of the House interior committee, which reviewed the state’s readiness in terms of personnel, equipment and coordination.
Interior ministry permanent secretary Elikkos Elia said 758 compensation applications had been submitted on time and all had been examined.
He said compensation had been paid in full to 119 homes, while 133 homes had received a first instalment, 38 a second instalment and 14 a third instalment. A further 88 families received a fourth instalment to cover rental costs while their homes are restored.
Prevention and coordination measures
Elia said the ministry, district administrations and other services were working together on fire prevention, including clearing dry vegetation. He added that the Game and Fauna Service and the forestry department were carrying out round-the-clock patrols.
He also urged parliament to prioritise legislation establishing a new Civil Protection Directorate, describing it as a key part of strengthening the country’s emergency response.
“We also need the help of citizens to prevent disasters,” he said.
Emergency alerts and firefighting resources
Responding to questions from MPs, Elia confirmed that the government had received a legal opinion from the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection confirming the legality of the CY-Alert emergency warning system.
National wildfire coordinator and chief fire officer Nikos Longinos said Cyprus has had 13 firefighting aircraft available since May 1 and expects to add another two before the end of the year.
He added that €3 million had been allocated to communities for vegetation clearance and said keeping both village perimeters and residential areas clear of combustible material remained essential.