The Larnaca Municipal Council has unanimously voted to propose protests outside the city’s port, despite government efforts to ease tensions over sudden decisions regarding the management of Larnaca port and marina.
In a statement, the council expressed serious concerns about the Cabinet’s decision to hand over management of both facilities to a private operator for five years without any investment obligations.
The council warned that the temporary management agreement could become permanent, citing previous cases where management contracts led to endless extensions and lengthy court proceedings.
It also raised concerns that this arrangement could significantly delay the city’s vision for substantial investment in the port.
Questions have emerged about the selection process after the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) revealed it had submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Transport demonstrating its capacity not only to manage the port temporarily but also to make significant investments.
The council claims this option was not considered by the ministry.
Regarding the marina, the council expressed heightened concern about the impact on already announced development projects, including the construction of a yacht club and marina improvements.
The council stated it would withdraw from its role as project coordinator if the government maintains its current position.
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras has personally briefed President Christodoulides on these concerns.
The president subsequently announced that new decisions might be forthcoming, stating during a visit to Larnaca that there would be “new announcements in coordination with Larnaca municipality”.
However, Vyras told philenews he was unaware of any new announcements, noting he would attempt to contact the Transport Minister, who is currently abroad, to inquire about potential changes.
The council has scheduled a meeting of the city’s Development Committee for Friday, December 6, to decide on protest actions if the government’s new decisions fail to address their concerns.
