25 January 2025 - Corruption and mismanagement seem to be affecting the Forestry Department
The initiation of disciplinary proceedings against three employees of the Forestry Department by the Public Service Commission (EDY) in connection with the purchase of services for aerial forest firefighting confirms concerns about possible irregularities.
We recall that the issue has been discussed for years after failed bids and questions regarding the cost of the relevant contracts, which “exceeded the initial cost estimate by 287%”. However, it is worth looking at the public statements, including before the House of Representatives, of the then Director of the Forestry Department, who insisted that there was absolutely no problem.
At the same time, since 2023 we are waiting the outcome of three reports, which are still being studied by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, on the environmental crime and the contract concerning the projects in Akamas for which both the former and the current director of the Department of Forests should be held accountable. Unfortunately, despite the assurances given by the Minister before the Environment Committee for transparency and accountability, the disciplinary investigation remains “confidential”, even if the public interest demands transparency since in the meantime the EDY has proceeded to the new Director of the Department of Forests.
We call on Ms. Maria Panayiotou to proceed with an immediate investigation of all the complaints before her and to inform the taxpayer about the management of the budgets. The Department of Forests and its Ministry are responsible for the protection of the environment, the sustainability and prosperity of our country.