Nicosia, Cyprus. The forestry department said it is preparing amendments to modernise the framework for leasing state forest land after scrutiny prompted by a critical audit report. It said the changes aim to address problems identified in the report and improve management of state property.
Amendments and cooperation with authorities
The department said it agrees on the need to update the institutional framework and is working on changes intended to address issues highlighted in the special audit report. It said its objective is to resolve deficiencies and improve sound management of state property.
It said the protection of forests and biodiversity remains its primary priority and added that it is committed to close cooperation with the audit office and other competent authorities to continuously improve procedures and remedy deficiencies.
Audit period and legacy issues
The report examined the period from 2018 to 2025, but the department said many issues raised stem from decisions and practices dating back decades, in some cases to the 1970s, within what it described as a complex institutional and administrative environment. It said corrective and preventive measures have already been initiated.
Leasing scrutiny and identified weaknesses
A significant part of the audit focused on the leasing of state forest land, which has come under public scrutiny following revelations of lease expansions, environmental oversights and more than €1.3 million in overdue revenue.
The department said the main weaknesses identified relate to delays in the revision of leases, which it expects to address in cooperation with the cadastre with the aim of expediting relevant procedures.
Conditions for leasing state forest land
The department said leasing of state forest land is permitted only for specific purposes and requires cabinet approval, consultation with all relevant departments and the determination of market rent by the land registry. It said the primary objective is not the leasing of land but the protection and preservation of forests, adding that leases are examined only upon request.
What changes do you think should be prioritised to improve oversight of state forest land leases?
