The Council of Ministers has approved amendments to existing legislation allowing authorities to prohibit vessels from departing ports in the Republic and, where necessary, require them to move to a safe harbour or port during dangerous weather conditions.
The measure, announced on Wednesday by Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis, is intended to serve as an interim arrangement pending the establishment of a Cyprus Coast Guard.
According to Hadjimanolis, the changes will strengthen the authorities' ability to respond during periods of severe weather, addressing issues that recently came to the fore following maritime incidents and rescue operations around Cyprus.
Anchorage committee to be established
The Cabinet also approved the creation of an Anchorage Committee, to operate under the coordination of the Deputy Ministry of Shipping.
According to the deputy minister, the committee will bring together all relevant state authorities and other stakeholders to examine:
- Maritime safety.
- Conditions governing vessel stays at anchorages.
- Collection of waste.
- Proper waste-management procedures.
- Coordination of state services operating at sea.
The objective is to create a more unified framework for managing maritime activities, with clearly defined responsibilities for all agencies involved.
Broad representation
According to information obtained by Politis, the committee will be established immediately and will include representatives from:
- The Cyprus Ports Authority.
- The Department of Environment.
- The Department of Fisheries and Marine Research.
- The Port and Marine Police.
- Local authorities.
The body is expected to review the overall framework governing anchorages and propose measures aimed at improving safety, environmental protection and operational oversight.
The reforms form part of broader efforts to strengthen maritime governance until the proposed Coast Guard structure becomes operational.
Source: CNA
