The Cabinet has approved a de minimis aid package worth €270,000 for 27 professional fishermen operating from Liopetri River Fishing Shelter, officials announced on Wednesday.
The financial support measure, which amounts to €10,000 per eligible fisherman, comes in recognition of the economic challenges caused by prolonged delays in the completion of harbour upgrade works. The aid covers the period from September 2020 through to 2025.
Dr Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, announced the decision following the cabinet meeting, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting the country’s primary sector.
The harbour improvement contract falls under the management of the Department of Town Planning and Housing at the Ministry of Interior, with public procurement procedures currently underway.
“The government’s priority is to advance projects that will enable professional fishermen to resume their full commercial activities promptly,” the minister stated, outlining planned interventions including improvements to access roads and quay facilities at the fishing shelter.
These improvements are expected to be completed within the coming months, according to ministry sources, though specific timelines remain subject to procurement procedures.
The support package follows commitments made by the President of Cyprus during a regional meeting in Famagusta, where he pledged to enhance development in the area and provide targeted assistance to the fishing sector.
