Ministry defends Mazotos desalination project after residents block road
The agriculture ministry says the Mazotos desalination plant is vital for Cyprus’ water security and pledges continued discussions with residents over local benefits.
Mazotos, Cyprus. Responding to a road blockade by residents concerned about environmental effects, the agriculture ministry on Saturday defended the proposed desalination facility in Mazotos. It said the project was necessary to secure Cyprus’ water supply and would advance in compliance with the law.
Water supply and irrigation
In its statement, the ministry cited the extended drought, strain on available water and climate change as reasons to increase desalination infrastructure.
Additional capacity would support drinking water supplies across Cyprus while allowing more water from alternative sources to remain available for irrigation, it said.
The ministry maintained that development of the Mazotos plant was following the procedures required and conditions imposed by the relevant authorities.
Discussions on local benefits
The ministry said it did not seek a confrontation with residents, but instead wanted “serious and productive dialogue” about measures beneficial to Mazotos.
It reported that several technical and political meetings had already involved the community council, residents and other interested parties. Those discussions had provided information and addressed concerns, according to the statement.
The ministry confirmed that the community authority had made written requests for compensatory measures designed to bring concrete benefits to the area. Talks would continue to determine which measures met local needs and should receive priority, it said.
Legal proceedings
With court proceedings underway, the ministry said it would avoid additional public statements that might be seen as interference with the courts.
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