Government coast guard to begin under justice ministry

Nicosia, Cyprus. The planned coast guard will initially operate under the justice ministry before being transferred to the deputy shipping ministry, officials told the House audit committee on Thursday.

A draft bill establishing the new force is being reviewed by the legal service, justice ministry representative Nikos Chrysostomou said.

Legislative framework

Justice Minister Costas Fitiris instructed officials to examine the creation of a coast guard after identifying overlapping responsibilities and inefficiencies in the handling of maritime affairs.

Chrysostomou said the cabinet had approved the establishment of a legislative committee to make optimal use of personnel and resources and reduce operating costs.

The government approved the coast guard’s creation in principle in March, with plans to consolidate responsibilities currently held by several state services.

Responsibilities and base

The proposed service will operate independently of the police and take on maritime law enforcement duties.

Its responsibilities will also include protecting offshore platforms and fibre optic cables in Cyprus’ maritime zone.

Personnel and assets from existing services, including the marine police, are expected to be integrated into the new force.

The coast guard will be headquartered at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari, where infrastructure upgrades are planned to support its operations.

The government has also been taking interim measures while the new force is established.