Efforts are actively underway to resolve a recent administrative oversight and establish a clear, supportive framework for replacing asbestos roofs on state managed properties across the Paphos district.
The issue arose after the Paphos District Administration issued notices directly to residents of Turkish Cypriot properties, many of whom are refugees paying rent to the state, instructing them to replace asbestos roofing within two months at their own expense or face eviction. The directives caused widespread concern due to the high costs and specialized safety protocols required for professional asbestos abatement.
Clarifying the Administrative Miscommunication
Key officials have stepped in to address the situation, clarifying that the notifications were sent prematurely without proper coordination:
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Lack of Inter-Agency Coordination: Nikos Kettiros, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Refugees and AKEL MP, explained that the Paphos District Administration acted independently following general instructions regarding asbestos hazards, omitting prior consultation with the Turkish Cypriot Property Service.
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Refining the Approach: Kettiros noted that while public health awareness regarding asbestos is essential, the communication required more careful handling to avoid unnecessary distress among rent-paying tenants.
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Collaborative Solutions: Direct discussions are currently underway between parliamentary representatives, the competent Ministry, and the Turkish Cypriot Property Service to ensure a fair and positive resolution for affected households.
Overview of Key Factors & Parliamentary Steps
| Area of Focus | Current Situation | Next Steps & Parliamentary Actions |
| Tenant Impact | Refugees paying state rent in Paphos villages facing costly specialized removal requirements. | Establishing coordinated government assistance to handle structural updates safely. |
| Legislative Agenda | Matter previously discussed in the Refugee Committee. | Scheduled as a primary agenda item for the upcoming Tuesday committee session. |
| Pancyprian Refugee Committee (PEP) | Currently inactive due to an unappointed Board Chairman by the Council of Ministers. | Ex-officio parliamentary review on Tuesday to resolve board appointments and schedule committee elections. |
Moving Toward Resolution
Despite past delays in executing roof replacements, parliamentary momentum is building toward establishing a structured, state-supported replacement process. The upcoming parliamentary sessions aim to finalize institutional oversight and ensure property upgrades are carried out safely without placing an unfair burden on local residents.
Source: Stockwatch.com.cy