Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

Temperatures to soar

2011-08-09T21:41:00.001+03:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement reiterated the need to protect workers from direct sunlight and called for the revision of legislation.

“The high temperatures in combination with increased humidity over the last few days in Cyprus, brings back the serious issue of the ‘wretched conditions’ of workers in the outdoors in the insufferable heat and temperatures totally unsuitable for the human body,” the movement said.

The CSEM said the law did not include workers exposed to direct sunlight. It said the lack of legislation was a serious deficit which left workers exposed to danger and even jeopardised their lives. It also went on to accuse employers of indifference when it came to offering adequate protection to their employees who were forced to work under heatwave conditions and very high temperatures.

Thousands of Turkish Cypriots say ‘no’ to Ankara austerity

2011-03-05T01:31:00.000+02:00

CLOSE TO 30,000 Turkish Cypriots rallied in the northern part of Nicosia yesterday calling for the Turkish government in Ankara to withdraw an economic austerity package that they say will force the community to emigrate.

“This country is ours. We will govern ourselves!” read banners carried by throngs of protesters yesterday at what was undoubtedly the largest rally staged by the community since those in support of a UN-backed plan to reunite the island in 2004.

Discontent has been growing in the north since Ankara forced the ruling National Unity Party (UBP) to implement from January 1 sweeping austerity measures aimed at cutting back on what it sees as the north’s bloated public sector. Some salaries in the sector have been cut by up to 40 per cent, and there are plans to privatize some of the north’s ‘state–run’ corporations – a move unions believe will lead to mass redundancies.

Although primarily aimed at the Turkish government, many used yesterday’s protest to express support for the reunification of the island.

“We want the world to hear that we want peace and reunification. We want a future,” said 40 year-old Ayse Oz.

Others expressed a simple desire for self-determination - something many said even Ankara, the breakaway state’s benefactor, had refused to grant the community.

“We want to rule ourselves. Right now we don’t have sovereignty, but this is our country; we have to be the ones to run it,” 64 year-old retired Salih Pilli told the Cyprus Mail.

A similar rally on January 28 gathered over 10,000 protesters and provoked the anger of Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan who, after seeing banners calling on Ankara to “leave the Turkish Cypriots alone”, blasted the community for being recipients Turkish financial aid while simultaneously telling Ankara to get out of its affairs. Erdogan raised tension in February by replacing his ‘ambassador’ to Nicosia with Halil Ibrahim Akca, the chief architect of the austerity package.

Clearly angered by what they saw as Erdogan’s “insults” to the community, many of yesterday’s rallygoers again carried banners calling on his Justice and Development Party (AKP) to “get your hands off the Turkish Cypriots” – a move that can be expected to further irritate the Turkish leader.

Speaking to the rally, head of the Turkish Cypriot Teachers’ Union (KTOS) Sener Elcil called for Turkey to end its policy of running the north from Ankara, and issued an appeal to Greek Cypriots and the EU to help end the division of the island.

“We will put pressure Turkey. We will put pressure on The Greek Cypriots. And we will put pressure on the EU. Turkish Cypriots will be the power behind reunification,” he said.

But with the participation also of right-wing parties in yesterday’s rally, not all calls were for reunification. Some, like Democrat Party (DP) leader Serdar Denktash, son of the founder of the ‘TRNC’ Rauf Denktash told the Mail earlier that he would join the rally because he wanted Turkey to “respect the administration” in the north as a “truly sovereign authority”.

“We are saying that we can rule ourselves. This is our house. Okay, it’s not a clean house, but we can clean it up,” he said. For the past two weeks Denktash has been staging a vigil outside the Turkish ‘embassy’ in north Nicosia

With people of all ages in attendance, yesterday’s rally passed off peacefully with police exercising their power to confiscate banners they saw as provocative or insulting to Turkey. Owner of the outspoken daily Afrika Sener Levent and a number of supporters were turned back from the rally when they tried to enter Inonu Square, the rally’s destination, carrying a banner reading, “You saved us? Hassiktir! (a mild curse in Cypriot parlance but highly insulting in Turkish)” Others carrying the Cyprus Republic flag were also presented from entering the square, and a brief scuffle ensued but no one was hurt. Levent responded by displaying the flags and banners from his office’s balcony in north Nicosia.

Commenting on the rally, head of the Eastern Mediterranean University’s (EMU) Cyprus Policy Centre Ahmet Sozen told the Cyprus Mail the protest stemmed from an almost universal desire among Turkish Cypriots for self-determination.

“This is not the same as saying they want their own state, but they want to rule themselves, either in a federation with the Greek Cypriots, or if that isn’t going to come in the near future, without the interference of Ankara, he said”.

How Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot authorities will react to yesterday’s rally remains to be seen. However the ‘finance minister’ Ersin Tatar on Tuesday warned of economic collapse if the Ankara-devised austerity package was not implemented. “If you don’t take austerity measures, and keep on borrowing, we’ll end up not being able to pay public sector salaries,” he said. He added that he wanted “to be able to create a sustainable economy so we can stand on our own feet without taking aid from Turkey”.

On the Greek Cypriot side, over 50 people gathered at the Ledra Street crossing yesterday to support and encourage Turkish Cypriots in the north, who were protesting against Ankara’s austerity measures.

The protest was organised by a Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teachers platform.

Most of the demonstrators expressed a desire to have a solution and most importantly see a reunified island soon.

“We want reunification of our country and stronger protests [to achieve this], there are too few people here today,” said 67-year-old Andreas Mandis.

“We have to mobilise to stand by our Turkish Cypriot compatriots against all the things that are keeping our country apart,” said 37-year-old Nicoletta Angelodimou.

Polis Aniftos, a 40-year-old, expressed a similar sentiment: “We want to express our support in the Turkish Cypriot struggle.”

“A solution is the only way….the situation cannot continue with the way talks are proceeding,” he added.

Protest and solidarity gathering

2011-02-11T20:16:00.002+02:00

G/C and T/C Teachers' Platform United Cyprus, G/C section

Saturday 12/02/2011 – 11.00 am

Our Turkish Cypriot compatriots continue with their popular protests the resistance to their current relation with Turkey and to the provocative statements by Tayip Ertogan. The atmosphere smells 2003 and reminds us the error of our side that did not embrace in practice the mobilisation then, thus leaving an opportunity to create a solution dynamic to pass away. The second chance has arrived and as history shows, we need not just verbal support but intense and clear action in society that clearly sends the message that united and in solidarity Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots can coexist and live with dignity in their common country. The time to get out in the streets and send the message to all directions that with our actions, we stand by the protesters, has come and it will not wait. No more games with time. Now is the time to refuse partition. Now is the time for the solution.

Let us get into the streets
to send a strong message of solidarity
to create a common front of action
to reunite Cyprus
to not miss another chance.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T02:17:00.002+02:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement wishes you a Happy, Prosperous and Creative year.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

2010-12-01T20:12:00.001+02:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement, on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, expresses its disregard for the situation and the response of the government and the Cyprus society against the problems of disable people.

Unfortunately, situations and practices of previous decades, still exist now. Disabled people are not yet fully considered within development issues. They are still excluded from society, work and social events. Even where effective disability legislation is in place, the implementation lacks ideas and is hindered by negative attitudes towards disabled people.

The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, aims to promote:

an understanding of disability issues
the rights of persons with disabilities
gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of their communities.

The Day provides an opportunity to mobilize action to achieve the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights and participation in society by persons with disabilities, established by the World Program of Action concerning Disabled Persons, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982.

Facebook video a violation of child’s rights

2010-11-18T18:12:00.000+02:00

COMMISSIONER for Children’s Rights, Leda Koursoumba yesterday branded the video of a child waving a toy gun around and parroting his grandfather’s call to shoot Turks and communists, as a flagrant violation of the four-year-old boy’s rights.

“Any training or guidance should prepare the child for a responsible life in a free society in the spirit of understanding,” said Koursoumba.

The video was posted two weeks ago on Facebook by the boy’s grandfather, a senior official in the public service. However within minutes of the story being broadcast on CyBC on Tuesday night, the video was removed from the sight of the general public.

Those who saw it before it was removed said the video airs a man’s voice – believed to be the child’s grandfather - prompting the boy to repeat that he was going to shoot Turks and communists and ‘long-live the [Greek] junta’, which instigated the coup in Cyprus in 1974.

Koursoumba called the video a “flagrant violation” of the child’s rights, claiming that it is the state’s responsibility to intervene and protect the boy when a child’s parents and family instills racist and fascist comments. She also called for the involvement of the welfare services.

According to police spokesman Michalis Katsounotos the police chief issued orders as soon as they found out about the video, and sent the file to the Attorney-general’s office to see if criminal charges were warranted. He also highlighted that the Attorney-general might want to involve the Commissioner for the Protection of Children’s Rights and the Department of Social Services.

(Cyprus Mail)

Lost, found or need to be rehomed animals

2010-11-16T00:17:00.000+02:00

Thousands of adorable pets are abandoned every year, left alone without care and food by their owners.

Christiana Mandriotou has opened a group on facebook with hundreds of pictures of abandoned animals looking for a new home.

So, we call upon your sentimental feelings. Please, if you can have a lovely pet at home, take a look at this PAGE. You will find all information needed for the pet of your choice.

Thank you in advance

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

Millions of Songbirds Killed for Recipe

2010-09-07T10:16:00.000+03:00

Parts of Europe are now "death traps" for migrating songbirds, according to the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS), which reports that millions of birds are illegally poached each year -- literally. The birds are often either pickled or poached for a Cypriot "delicacy" called ambelopoulia.
Pickled songbird might not sound appetizing to everyone but, like shark fin soup, bird's nest soup and turtle dishes, it's part nutrition, part adventure and part folk remedy for those who consume it. The dish is expensive and involves illegal practices but, due to poor regulation of laws protecting songbirds, it can still be found in many restaurants.
One restaurant owner with ambelopoulia on his menu likens it to Viagra.
(Blackcap bird, commonly found in ambelopoulia; Credit: Jakub Stanco)

According to the CABS, up to 10 million songbirds are illegally killed each year, often for this dish. The poachers may prepare it themselves or, more likely, sell the birds to restaurants and others who deal in this illegal trade. A single songbird may sell for around $3.60.
In addition to outright shooting the birds, poachers will kill them in all sorts of horrific ways, as videotaped by the CABS and reported on recently by The New Yorker.
Methods include:

playing recordings of songbird calls to lure the birds into traps
mist nets that trap the birds mid-flight (each net costs about $120 and thousands are smuggled into Cyprus)
use of lime-sticks

A lime-stick is a twig that the poacher coats with a gray colored "glue," made from boiling fruits from the Syrian plum-tree. The coated stick is then tucked away where songbirds might land to rest. Once a bird lands on the lime-stick it cannot remove itself.
Struggling for hours, the birds hang and flap upside down, sometimes dying in the attempt to free themselves. Poachers later check their sticks and will kill any birds that are still alive. Images and more information about these hunting techniques are at this 10,000 Birds page.
The economic crisis in Greece and in other countries has only made matters worse. In addition to Cyprus, illegal songbird poaching is common in Malta and Italy, countries where the CABS sets up bird protection camps in the summer and autumn months, attempting to save as many birds as they can.
The illegal traps catch anything that lands on them, or flies into them, so many endangered species, such as certain owls, also become bycatch victims.
All of this comes at a time when animal welfare issues are just beginning to take root in Cyprus.
"The Cypriot government has laws readily available to be enforced that involve the welfare of animals, and dogs in particular, however, the infrastructure in dealing with issues of animal welfare is still in the very early stages," said Alexia Zalaf, a University of Leicester researcher who is hoping to improve animal welfare in Cyprus and in the United Kingdom.
She added, "Carrying out this research in Cyprus and the UK will provide much needed evidence into attitudes towards animal abuse, which is a newly established area. This research study will provide the framework for future researchers both in Cyprus and the UK to further develop the field."
"Eventually, our long term goal is to promote awareness of the phenomenon of animal abuse, and promote action not only by the general public but also by the responsible authorities," she added.
As for the illegal bushmeat trade, so often participants get involved in the illegal songbird food trade because they are hungry, have no other work, and it's fairly easy money for them. They wind up getting involved with what their friends are doing. I just hope that enforcement of hunting laws -- meant to protect endangered species -- will also be accompanied by education programs to help poachers redirect their energies into more productive, sustainable work.

Tokyo Two court verdict is out

2010-09-07T10:13:00.002+03:00

Today our two anti-whaling activists stood in court as heroes, having successfully put whaling on trial, both in court, and in Japan's national media.

Junichi Sato and Toru Suzuki, known as the Tokyo Two, exposed widespread corruption in Japan's whaling programme and in return, they have been handed a 12 month jail sentence, suspended for three years.

We are appealing this totally unjust, politically motivated sentence and we need your help to do so.

Our activists are always prepared to take responsibility for their actions, and standing up in court for what we believe in is often a result of taking appropriate, peaceful action. However, it is unacceptable for the authorities to ignore human rights and freedom of expression.

Please continue to stand by Junichi and Toru: send an e-mail to Japan's Foreign Minister about this harsh verdict now.

And read more about the verdict here.

Thank you again,

Everyone,
Greenpeace International

Breath of fresh air since smoking ban

2010-08-31T17:30:00.001+03:00

THERE has been a 90 per cent improvement in the quality of air in enclosed public spaces since a blanket smoking ban was introduced at the beginning of the year, a study released yesterday has found.

“The results of the study support that the smoking ban in all public places had a dramatic improvement in the quality of air in enclosed spaces and was especially effective in reducing interior pollution levels by some 90 per cent,” an announcement by Cyprus’ University of Technology (TEPAK) said.

Working in collaboration with the Harvard School of Public Health, TEPAK conducted two air quality measurements, one between April 2007 to January 2008 and again from March to May of 2010, in 21 different places of recreation around Cyprus.
Professor Gregory N Connolly of Harvard School of Public Health, who specialises in research on smoking said, “these results have surpassed all our expectations and this means that the customers and workers of the bars and restaurants in Cyprus can enjoy a safer, healthier environment as those in other countries which have already succeeded in banning smoking in all public spaces.”

The ban, which came into force on January 1 was vehemently opposed by the owners of bars and night-clubs, who argued that it would hurt their business.
In fact, in the first month, they said that their business was down by 40 per cent.
But while there was a widespread compliance at first, there have been increasing complaints that some clubs have reverted back to their old habits, allowing customers to smoke indoors.

Official police figures released yesterday show a total of 3,288 violations islandwide for the period between January and July.
Police issued on-the-spot fines for 3,230 while the other 58 cases are still to be brought before a court.
During this time police carried out 27,500 checks.
Police are authorised to issue €85 fines while violators going to court face a €2,000 fine. That includes both the owner and the smoker.
Owners of establishments also face fines of up to €1,000 for failing to place highly visible no smoking signs where applicable.
Limassol topped the charts with 1,820 violations with second-place Nicosia recording 755.
In Limassol, bars accounted for 417 of the violations, with clubs and cafes adding a further 329.
The majority in Limassol – 632 - came from an unspecified group of “other” venues.
According to the statistics, smoking is clearly a male-dominated sport, with 2,653 reported by police compared to 635 women.

The TEPAK report will come as bad news for a group of mostly DIKO and DISY deputies who are seeking to amend the smoking ban when parliament meets again after the summer recess. The deputies want designated smoking areas in hotels and larger restaurants and bars, with the owners of those premises smaller than 70 square metres having the right to decide for themselves whether to be completely smoking or non-smoking.

Clash at site of Ormidhia waste disposal site

2010-08-25T12:18:00.003+03:00

TEMPERS flared at the site for Famagusta District’s new waste management plant near Ormidhia, as villagers blocked the path of earth-moving equipment that was to be used to prepare the site ahead of construction.

Large numbers of police from the Dhekelia base reportedly closed off the site yesterday morning ahead of the machinery’s arrival, prompting a large number of villagers to gather with the intention of blocking off the approach-road. After a tense stand-off, word was apparently passed to the contractor, and the machinery did not turn up. Both villagers and police left the site just before lunchtime.

The majority of Ormidhia residents have mounted a vigorous campaign of opposition to the waste disposal plant since the plans were announced some eighteen months ago, amid concerns over the risk to local residents’ health and the environment. Protest action has included blocking the Ayia Napa-Larnaca motorway. The area, which falls within SBA territory, already has an Electricity Authority power plant and a large desalinisation plant nearby.

(Cyprus Mail)

Idalion treasures

2010-08-25T12:14:00.001+03:00

Findings of great interest were unearthed during excavations in ancient Idalion, carried out by the Lycoming College Expedition, in sites that included an extremely ancient temple, going back to the Cypro-Geometric period, which was dedicated to the Great Goddess of Cyprus, the Wanassa, or “Mistress of Animals.” According to a press release issued by the Department of Antiquities of the Ministry of Communications and Works, the seven-week-long field work focused on the terrace of the East Acropolis, Moutti tou Arvili, and the reopening of the excavations in the Adonis Temenos.

With the removal of several years of accumulated rain wash, extraordinary vessels were revealed sitting on what appeared to be the last used floor of the sanctuary. These finds indicate that the sanctuary was in use until the first century BC. The cluster of whole vessels on a floor covered with mud brick detritus may indicate that the sanctuary was abandoned in something of a hurry.

Of great interest was the discovery of the limits of the Hellenistic altar in the Adonis Temenos. As expected, the western corner of the southern edge of the altar was found approximately 8 meters west of the eastern corner. The huge size of this altar indicates the continuing importance of the cult of the consort of the Great Mother at Idalion in the Hellenistic period. Evidence of votive terracottas continued in the area of the altar.

In the area known as the “Sanctuary of the Paired Deities”, the team continued to uncover the eastern area last used in the Roman period. It was discovered that, in addition to worshipping a pair of aniconic deities, a male and a female, ancient Cypriot worshippers donated numerous limestone votive figures.

This season’s work revealed more of the Roman installations in the Eastern portion of the sanctuary, including a large cistern or basin lined with hydraulic plaster. Very near this basin is an impressive set of massive, carefully hewn paving stones set in a line, possibly to mark a ceremonial pathway. There is little doubt that this extremely ancient Temple, going back to the Cypro-Geometric period, was dedicated to the Great Goddess of Cyprus, the Wanassa, or “Mistress of Animals,” sometimes represented as Artemis, and her consort who came to be called Adonis in later centuries. That he was known as the “Master of Animals” accounts for his representation sometimes as Herakles, sometimes as Pan.

In fact, the ancient Cypriots borrowed religious symbols from many nations to represent their own native gods. New to the Lycoming College Expedition this year was the Hellenistic industrial area to the East of the Lymbia Road. As this area lies directly down-slope from the Adonis Temenos, perhaps it is not surprising that numerous sculpture fragments were found there in the upper levels. These statuettes were clearly washed down from the sacred grove above. The former American expedition in the 1970s located the large plaster-lined basin associated with the architecture in this field.

They suggested that it might be a bath complex, perhaps associated with a Roman villa or other Roman building. It seems however that the area indicates a major Hellenistic industrial installation, possibly for the processing of textiles. At each end of the basin, which measures close to 6m long by 2.7m wide, there are depressions, apparently for the insertion of wooden rods, presumably for the rolling of cloth or wool through liquid for dying or producing felt. Next year, the team plans to investigate the limits of the “Sanctuary of the Paired Deities”, to explore the Hellenistic industrial complex and to find the earlier levels of the Adonis Temenos.

Source of arsenic water discovered

2010-08-13T23:13:00.001+03:00

GOVERNMENT scientists have at last discovered the source of arsenic contamination in Mammari villages’ water.

A committee of more than 10 scientists from the agriculture ministry’s environment service, plus one university Professor have finally established that the contamination comes from many sources, including bi-products from animal farming, light industry and the bedrock itself.

Costas Hadjipanayiotou, who led the investigation, said yesterday: “We have now completed the search, which has taken a lot of time, and all the results are now in front of the Minister, who will present the findings when he returns from his trip.” However, one source within the agriculture ministry confirmed the source of the arsenic is a combination of both natural and man-made causes. “From what I have read (the contamination) is from both farms and from rocks beneath the surface.”

The problem first emerged a year ago, when a chemical analysis of the water revealed the level of arsenic in the water exceeded internationally established safety levels. Another source, from within the committee, said: “The whole search was undertaken after the presence of arsenic was found in the water, but this was not found in all the samples.” At that time the locals initially suspected contaminants came from nearby chicken farms, which the committee source confirmed is partly true, and when the boreholes were dug to test surrounding groundwater, the microbial level was also found to be too high for drinking.

From August until October when a pipe was laid down to carry water from Nicosia, the residents were being supplied by tanker. Asked what the Ministry intended to do next, the second source said that this decision lay with the water development board (WDD) but for now the water would continue to be pumped from Nicosia. “We have not come up with a final solution yet, but for the time being water will continue to be pumped to Mammari.”

As for the microbes, the source said “since this is not now provided as drinking water, it is not a problem.” Agriculture Minister Andreas Polynikis will deliver the findings of its investigation to the Mammari community council at the end of August, when he returns from holiday.

Rush to build could prove costly

2010-08-13T23:10:00.001+03:00

THE PUBLIC Company for Natural Gas (DEFA) will be evaluating, over the next few weeks, the proposals submitted by four, big international companies for the supply of liquefied natural gas to Cyprus over a 20-year period. A new round of negotiations with at least two of the short-listed companies would follow as DEFA, which is owned by the state and the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC), are looking to secure the best possible terms.

Once the contract is signed, the EAC would announce its decision regarding its strategic partner for the construction and operation of the land terminal for the LNG. After more than a decade of prevarication and indecision, the authorities have finally got moving. The government found a sense of urgency once the EU started imposing fines on Cyprus for its CO2 emissions, a cost that will increase every year and will be passed on to the Electricity Authority’s customers.

But as with all rushed decisions there is a big risk of costly mistakes being made. Serious reservations have already been expressed about the government’s plans which, on the surface, do not seem to be the most cost-effective. This is inevitable given that the enterprise was placed on the wrong basis from the start, by the approval in 2007 of the law that gave DEFA monopolistic rights and obliged it to purchase LNG and de-liquify it at the Vassiliko terminal. The most worrying thing is that the state would be in charge of the project, which means costs would be higher than if it were given to the private sector. In a statement issued on Monday, DISY deputy leader Averof Neophytou questioned the logic of awarding the successful company a 20-year, supply contract. What if, in five or ten years, Cyprus was able to extract natural gas from sea? Explorations are currently under way and this possibility is not as remote as it seemed three years ago. But even if we don’t find natural gas under the sea, in ten years’ time there could be cheaper alternatives to LNG, such as compressed natural gas (CNG).

Former commerce minister Antonis Michaelides expressed a similar opinion, warning that the LNG/land terminal option could be disastrous for the economy. The cost of the investment in a land terminal would be huge and it would limit our options to LNG which might not be the cheapest alternative. He repeated his view - first voiced three years ago – that Cyprus should have invited tenders from abroad requesting the supply of natural gas directly to EAC’s power stations. A time-frame would have been demanded and guarantees for the continuous supply from the successful company.

We may have had to pay a slightly higher unit price, but there would be no need for a big investment in a land terminal and exclusive reliance on LNG. This would have been the rational approach that would have led to the most competitive and cost-effective solution. But it seems such rationality is beyond our politicians who could lumber the taxpayer with huge and unnecessary costs.

(Cyprus Mail)

ENORASIS Camping

2010-08-02T09:59:00.001+03:00

Between 3 and 8 August, ENORASIS socio-cultural club will be on nature holidays at Polis Chrysochous Eucalyptus Camping Site.

Come any day you feel comfortable.

We will try to help those who would ask for relevant equipment.

Call us for any information (Gaston 99.568.223).

Defibrillators installed in the center of Nicosia

2010-07-30T15:32:00.005+03:00

Municipality has installed four new defibrillators around the city and a portable one, all of which will be used only by trained staff as part of an effort to save lives when access to a hospital may not be immediate.

The defibrillators have been installed at the Town Hall, the municipality’s Technical Services Offices, the Municipal Swimming Pool and the old Municipal Market. Also every Wednesday, during the operational hours of the market near the ‘Oxi’ roundabout, there would be somebody with a portable defibrillator patrolling the area to cover any possible problems that occur. Nicosia Mayor Eleni Mavrou said that only trained personnel would be allowed to use the medical equipment to ensure there was no misuse. “This is the first series in this programme and it is expected that after the summer more defibrillators will be installed in highly concentrated areas,” she said.

To undertake the operation of the defibrillators, 17 people have been trained by cardiologist and pathologist Dr. Piero Georgiou and expert Marios Kaissi. Andreas Karagiorgis, a health and safety officer, explained that the employees would have to have previous experience in first aid and would therefore be able to tell the difference between cardiac arrest and a mere fainting incident. Ioannis Leontiou instructor for the European Resuscitation Council said that according to the law, the trainees will have to retake tests every year to ensure that they are up to standards. Furthermore, some of the regulations will have to be amended in order to coincide with EU standards.

Costas Antoniades, head of the accident and emergency department at the Nicosia general hospital said that the training was quite easy. “But if a person doesn’t know how to handle it, it can be really dangerous, and amongst other things, can cause heart irregularities. If the person is conscious when you do it, it’s like getting an electric shock,” he said. Cardiac arrest can happen at any time and can occur without symptoms, even to people who do not have a history of heart problems.

The municipality said an effective and instantaneous response to this “deadly and silent enemy” was defibrillation, which restores the natural rhythm of the heart. Clinical studies have shown that when victims of cardiac arrest are given immediate defibrillation, there is a 90 per cent increase in their chances of survival. Leontiou explained that the quantity and quality of training needs to be high to ensure that out of hospital incidents do not result in death.

(Cyprus Mail)

Wind park deal

2010-07-28T16:29:00.001+03:00

A contract for the subsidization of the third wind park in Cyprus was signed today at the Commerce and Industry Ministry in Nicosia.

Rocas Aeoliki Cyprus Ltd will be able to produce 20MW of electricity at its turbine installation in the Ayia Anna area, Larnaca district.

“This means we are very near our target of producing 165MW by 2013 and in good time too,” Minister Antonis Paschalides said.

On behalf of the company, the Director Demetris Yiannaki said they were anxious to start production in a year’s time and pledged to keep the completion schedule.

We support Pavlos Kleovoulou

2010-07-26T15:22:00.004+03:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement in an effort to help young Pavlos Kleovoulou, who's suffering from a very rare disease which has to be traeted abroad urgently, decided to organize an art exhibition - paintings, sculptures and handcrafts - which will be donated by the artists.

The exhibition is organized under the authority of the support team of young Pavlos and ALL raised money will be given for the treatment.

In this respect, we gratefully asking our artists friends and members of the group to donate a piece of their art.

We also call upon all our members to refer to every artist they know, asking them to donate a piece of art, in order to raise a sufficient number of art pieces and maintain the best possible results.

Exact date and place of the exhibition will be announced in a few days.

KISA Collects used clothes, shoes and other items

2010-07-22T19:37:00.002+03:00

KISA has started collecting used textiles for purposes of providing them to people who need them, for fundraising and promotion of recycling.

We collect:
· Men´s, women´s children´s clothing and paired shoes
· Household textiles i.e. curtains and linen
· Handbacks
· Belts

Unfortunately we cannot accept:
· Dirty or wet clothing
· Carpets
· Mats
· Off cuts of materials
· Single shoes

These items will be processed in collaboration with Anakyklos Perivallontiki, a non-for-profit environmentalist organisation as follows:

i) The clothing will be collected at KISA premises
ii) The items will be collected regularly by Anakyklos, they will be weighed and a donation per kilo will be offered to KISA, according to the quality of the items.
iii) Some of the clothes, after sorting, will be offered at nominal prices (to cover the cost) or will be provided free of charge in cases of people in need.
iv) Anakyklos will organise bazaars for KISA, with all proceeds offered to KISA.
v) The clothes will be available to be sent to countries that face emergency situations, natural disasters etc.
vi) Most of the items will be exported, aiming basically at reuse. The items that cannot be reused as second hand clothes will be recycled in order to produce wiping cloths, fibres for new clothing, insulation material and other products.

Only a small part, around 2%, will end up in landfill. It is stressed that the income from the sales of second hand items cover the costs of recycling.

The net income from the project will be redirected to funding environmental actions and programmes.

By offering your used clothes, shoes etc, you contribute:

A) To diminishing garbage that otherwise would end up in landfill, thus economising on recourses and manpower

B) Towards a cleaner, healthier environment

C) To the provision of useful items, free of charge or at low prices to people in Cyprus and abroad who need them

D) To funding of KISA activities, that include the provision of support services, free of charge, to migrants, refugees etc , programmes for children and other activities.

KISA - Action for Equality, Support, Antiracism
P.O. Box 22113, 1517 Nicosia, Cyprus
Tel : 00357 22 878181 - Fax: 00357 22 773039
email: kisa@cytanet.com.cy - web: www.kisa.org.cy

Huge church to dwarf 500-year old landmark Nicosia chapel

2010-07-17T10:59:00.004+03:00

HE TOWN Planning Department has granted permission for a “huge” new church next to 500-year-old Ayia Paraskevi Church in Strovolos (Nicosia), despite objections by Strovolos Municipality and local residents.

In a press statement, the Cyprus Social Ecology Movement slammed the proposed building of a “huge luxury church in the yard of the historic church of Ayia Paraskevi in Nicosia, despite strong reaction by the public as well as officials of the state and local authority.” The group criticised the Orthodox Church leadership for its “unacceptable and continuous plans” to build huge churches in the historic centre of Nicosia, the main public park in Paphos, and now a new church “that will overwhelm the Ayia Paraskevi Church in Nicosia”.

The Archbishopric’s plan to build a vast new cathedral in Nicosia old town has provoked strong criticism in terms of its impact on the area in visual and other terms. The Archbishop’s office is said to be lobbying hard to win the approval of Nicosia municipal councillors. In July 2009, Paphos Bishop Georgios announced his plans for a 20-metre tall cathedral in Paphos, but the local council voted it down overwhelmingly earlier this week, as part of the town planning consultation process. Ayia Paraskevi is one of the oldest churches in Nicosia, built some 500 years ago, and is tucked into the corner of a sizeable plot of land next to the Central Bank building and overlooked by the large head offices of the Bank of Cyprus. A photo of is featured in the European Commission’s online photo archive for Cyprus, designed to illustrate the cultural aspect of EU enlargement.

Town Planning Dept Head Christos Ktorides told the Mail yesterday that “an application for planning permission was made some time ago, and I believe it was granted recently.” Ktorides confirmed that the intention is to build a large new church next to the existing 500-year-old building, and “a consultation was carried out regarding the environmental impact on the immediate surroundings and area.” He firmly denied the suggestion that the new structure will tower over the old church, saying that there will be “a fair distance” between them. “Care was taken to maintain sufficient space around the old church and ensure it is not dominated by the new structure.

There will be a courtyard around the existing church – in no way will it be affected”, he said. Ktorides added: “The 12-floor apartment blocks across the road and the Central Bank building right next to it pose more questions in terms of size and dominance of the surroundings.” Strovolos Municipality Mayor Savvas Iliofotou explained to the Mail that two permits are needed for the new church to be built: planning permission, granted by the Town Planning Department, and a building permit, issued by the local authority. “When we were consulted by the Town Planning Dept as part of the normal process after they received the planning application from the Church, our response was negative”, Iliofotou said. He added: “According to what I have heard – we have not yet seen anything in writing – the Town Planning Dept has granted planning permission for the new church.

So now, we are obliged to issue a building permit, as the law says that once planning permission has been granted, we no longer have the right to withhold building permission except in cases of blatant violation of planning regulations.” In terms of when work on the new church might actually start, Iliofotou said that it normally takes “a minimum of three months” for a building permit to be issued once the application has been made officially.

(By Charles Charalambous - Cyprus Mail)

WWF measures environmental footprint of world´s largest fine paper companies

2010-07-16T12:53:00.003+03:00

WWF has launched a new voluntary rating tool for paper companies to report on their global ecological footprint.

The Paper Company Environmental Index assesses key environmental criteria, such as use of recycled fibre or fibre coming from well-managed forests, energy use and CO2 emissions, water consumption and water pollution.

Five globally significant fine paper manufacturers — Domtar from North America, M-real, Stora Enso and UPM from Europe and Mondi Group from South Africa/Europe — have been the first to voluntarily disclose their environmental profiles on WWF´s new online Paper Company Index. Results and profiles can be found www.panda.org/PaperCompanyIndex.

“WWF applauds these companies for their leadership and transparency,” says Harri Karjalainen, WWF’s Pulp and Paper Programme Manager. “They are the vanguard of a more sustainable paper industry.”
“Other fine paper and tissue companies, particularly those in North and South America and Asia, are invited to follow suit and show their boards of directors, business partners, shareholders, investors, paper buyers and communities what they have done to reduce their global ecological footprint,” says Karjalainen. “We hope this new online tool can promote some healthy competition within the paper industry. Who can achieve the lightest footprint?”

One of the participating companies, Mondi Group CEO, David Hathorn says: "We are pleased to have been part of the inaugural WWF Paper Company Environmental Index which assessed the efficient use of resources and environmental care. We hope that the index will attract many global paper companies as it provides an opportunity for participating companies to present progress made with reducing their environmental footprint.”

Fine papers have everyday uses including copier/printer paper, book paper, envelopes, forms, writing pads, high-quality magazines and brochures, catalogues and annual reports. WWF has launched the Paper Company Environmental Index at a time when total paper consumption is expected to increase from today’s 400 million tons to 450-500 million tons by 20201 leaving an unacceptably large ecological footprint on the planet if the industry does not make significant improvements. Irresponsible pulpwood harvesting and expanding pulpwood plantations have the potential to threaten fragile ecosystems and create social concerns if not carried out responsibly.

The pulp and paper industry is among the world’s largest users of energy and emitters of greenhouse gases, and a significant source of water pollution and landfill waste. The Paper Company Environmental Index covers impacts on forest ecosystems from fibre sourcing (35% of the maximum 100 points), emissions from manufacturing process such as water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions (35%), and corporate transparency (30%). The criteria apply to both policy and production, thus measuring each company´s targets and actual performance.

The index also includes companies’ own operations as well as the supply chain; for example, market pulp bought for production of the end product. The pulp and paper industry’s expansion is driven largely by emerging economies, in particular in Asia. Many global pulp and paper companies are moving their production to the Southern Hemisphere due to lower production costs. Pulpwood from the South is travelling longer distances to North American and European paper mills; approximately 80% of market pulp crosses an international border and 40% crosses an ocean to reach its market.

Disable's parking places

2010-07-14T00:44:00.003+03:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement organizes a campaign to assist people using a “disable’s car" and are facing serious problems with parking places.

As per the standing law, the local authorities have the obligation to set certain parking places, where, the disable person can park their vehicles near their working and resident locations.

In this respect, we call upon all citizens, who happen to know people facing such problems, to send us all necessary information (name, address etc.) in order to address relevant requests to various Municipal Authorities. You can send all information, either with an email, to gr.greens@gmail.com, or by fax to 22 519400 or give us a call at 99 653634

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

Cyprus Sets Wheels in Motion for Accessible Tourism

2010-07-01T10:52:00.002+03:00

The first open meeting on the subject of “Accessible Tourism” arranged by the Cyprus Committee of Accessible Tourism was held on 3rd June 2010 at Hotel Posidonias, with the participation of the Minister of Trade and Industry, the Cyprus Tourist Organisation and representatives of Municipalities and NGO networks.

ENAT Member, the European Social Forum of Cyprus has taken the initiative to form the Cyprus Committee of Accessible Tourism and was successful in bringing together the major players for this inaugural meeting. The meeting was honoured to welcome the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Antonis Paschalidis, as well as the Municipal Advisers of the Municipality of Yermasoyia, Mrs. Pepy Orphanidou, and the Municipality of Mesa Yitonia, Mr Stelios Stylianos.

The Chairman of the Cyprus Tourist Organisation, Mr. Alekos Orountiotis also attended the meeting. With his positive statements and political will, Minister Paschalidis expressed his support for policy developments that aim to promote the essential material and technical infrastructure for accessibility in all Cypriot hotels and tourism facilities, giving the delegates a sweet flavor of optimism for the future.

Mrs. Orphanidou reported on the decisions already taken by Yermasoyia Municipality to transform the municipality into the first Accessible Municipality of Limassol, and the 14 policy steps that follow the direction of TOURISM FOR ALL. She also expressed the decision of her Municipality to apply the law strictly, regarding the awarding or renewal of operating permits, ensuring that accessibility requirements are upheld.

The coordinator of the Committee Mr Chrysis Michailidis, spoke on accessibility as a Human Right and a characteristic of Culture, noting the gap between the Law and its application. The Cyprus Committee of Accessible Tourism wishes to thank the Honourable Minister Mr. Antonis Paschalidis for his support to the committee and the Hotel “Posidonias” that provided the meeting venue.

Progress in environmental matters? Or all those plastic bags!.

2010-06-16T18:14:00.003+03:00

How do Cypriots measure up? An example is how plastic bags in supermarkets, kiosks, shops and bakeries are handled.

There are several “distinctions”, all of which don’t live up to those in the international context, whether we aspire to be European or part of the wider international society. In many countries, plastic bags need to be purchased, in others they are banned. India, for example initiated a law in 2005 where manufacturers and stores selling plastic bags will be fined Rs 5,000, while individuals using bags face penalties of Rs 1,000.

Here, we are still at the stage where at best, paper or canvas bags are offered for sale, and at worst people are forced to accept plastic bags. Starting with shops, the best we can hope for is that an international company gives out paper bags. At worst, you are told that you may not leave the shop without a plastic bag for security reasons.

And how do all these other countries do without those? Regarding supermarkets, a remarkable (?) change has happened. Two big chains actually sell canvas bags instead of selling the plastic bags so is this progress? One advertises an environmental awareness. But does it happen? Purchasing fruits, I have yet to see a place where those can be gathered in anything else than plastic bags.

When we, as customers, arrive at the cashiers, who are ultimately the ones who decide on what to do with our purchases, the final verdict is and has been that you have to inform them that you come equipped with a canvas bag. I have, in such incidences, endured many comments which ensured that I felt bad after any shopping experience, such as: “Are you sure you can carry this?” Yes, well, I have bought groceries for 40 years or so, so why wouldn’t I know? In addition, a known bakery chain insists that customers need to use plastic bags.

I recently went to a store where the cashier actually giggled at my request to carry out one item without taking any bags. Summarisng these reactions, it is not surprising that the younger generation resists the idea of taking a canvas bag or refuse a plastic bag.

Until recently, it was considered to be “gay” by my sons to do so. Where is the progress? There are less negative comments and pitying looks. Good enough? We have a long way to go and not much time to get there.

Annette Chrysostomou

CYPRUS - Salination of Water Resources

2010-06-14T17:52:00.003+03:00

Water is a very valuable commodity in Cyprus. The yearly rainfall on the island is not generally adequate. Throughout the history islanders relied on underground water reserves to survive the year.

During the British collonial rule an extensive and complex network of wells were built to use the underground water resources. The British also introduced strict laws about water usage during dry summer months. However, the corrupt Turkish Cypriot leadership in north Cyprus and the political situation in Cyprus which does not allow adequate partnership and collaboration on water resources let to the salination of underground water resources.

This is now a very serious problem and many households receive domestic water which is practically unusable. This water is not very suitable for farming either. Unplanned and corrupt management of existing wells and new, deep wells using newer technologies dried up the underground reserves. This led to the invasion of the water-beds by the sea-water because of the pressure difference. When the sea water intrudes in an underground reservoir cleaning it up necessitates several years. To tackle the water-problems many schemes were developed.

However, the Turkish Cypriot leadership which is controlled by Republic of Turkey governments is a slave of their will and their funds. This meant that already corrupt Turkish bureaucracy made the decisions on these schemes. For example, many dams were built but the corrupt construction companies either wasted the funds or simply did not finish the job. Right now, many of these dams are serving as breeding grounds for migratory birds and picnic areas for Cypriots.

Eighteen dams were built up to now but only one serves for agriculture however others merely contain water till drying out and the water in them become salty. Denser water accumulate calcium and other materials down on the base and pollute land, close all orifices which cause feeding aquifer.

Then new water flowing into dams mixes with a highly condensed salty water that makes dams useless for any purpose. Turkish governments have also been promising impractical solutions such as bringing water from Turkey in large balloons pulled by ships or a pipeline under the Mediterranean sea. These are done mainly to serve the nationalist rhetoric of independent, self-reliant TRNC which survives thanks to "motherland" Turkey and suffers under Greek embargoes. Nowadays bringing water by balloons are proved to be impossible and project was dropped. Turkish authorities still talk about transferring water by ships however pipeline project was tendered to a company.

The failure of baloons has shown the uselessness of bringing expensive water but the show continues. Furthermore, the animosity between Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot leaderships did not allow joint programs to develop to tackle this problem. In an island as small as Cyprus and with a mixed infrastructure -- which was built before the partition, it is impossible to handle the water-resources without joint programs. This is not only an environmental problem but also a very humanitarian problem.

There are many sources of funding and various methods that have been successfully employed in the region. These should have been an utmost priority for the leaderhips to implement in Cyprus, however, they could not see beyond their nationalist, self-serving rhetoric and interests.
(CAN)

Bio-fooled: proposal on EU criteria would allow damaging unsustainable biofuels

2010-06-11T15:45:00.001+03:00

Commenting on the Communication on the sustainability criteria for biofuels, presented today by the EU Commission, Green MEP Bas Eickhout, Member of the Environment Committee, said:

"The Commission's proposals on applying the so-called 'sustainability criteria' for biofuels are riddled with loopholes and would allow climate-damaging fuels to get the all clear in Europe. Far from ensuring the sustainability of these fuels, the communication could undermine overall EU climate policy. The Commission does not acknowledge the potential problems with biofuels anywhere in the communication.

While pressure from MEPs and NGOs has thankfully resulted in the deletion of the scandalous definition of palm oil plantations as forests, the new loopholes that have been introduced are just as shameful. "Among the more odious loopholes, are the 'by-product definitions', which take no account of the existing economic uses of by-products.

This would mean that by-products could be diverted from one economic usage to use as biofuels and be substituted by more greenhouse gas intensive alternatives, without any attempt to factor in the resultant emissions increase. Another major flaw is the 'energy allocation definition', which would allow undistilled ethanol to be classified as near-zero emissions! This makes a mockery of the lifecycle greenhouse gas assessment process and renders the so-called 'sustainability criteria' nothing more than an exercise in greenwash."

Green MEP Claude Turmes, Vice-President of the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament and Parliament's rapporteur for Renewables, said: "It seems that Commissioner Oettinger is ill-advised in this dossier.
The Commission has still made no progress in setting out how to take account of the climate impact of indirect land-use change (ILUC) for biofuels. This issue is absolutely crucial for assessing how much greenhouse gases these fuels account for over their lifecycles and is therefore fundamental to assessing the 'sustainability' or not of biofuels.

This prolonged delay is inacceptable. Under the legislation on renewable energy agreed in December 2008, the Commission was tasked to come forward with measures to account for the full climate impact of agrofuels. It is also inimical to the interests of investors, who are badly in need of legislative certainty for their investments."

Israel's deadly raid on a flotilla of aid ships headed for Gaza

2010-06-07T08:45:00.003+03:00

The world is reeling from Israel's assault on an aid flotilla trying to reach Gaza. It's time for a full investigation to begin -- and for the siege of Gaza to end. Sign the worldwide petition, then forward this message:

Israel's deadly raid on a flotilla of aid ships headed for Gaza has shocked the world.

Israel, like any other state, has the right to self-defence, but this was an outrageous use of lethal force to defend an outrageous and lethal policy -- Israel's blockade of Gaza, where two thirds of families don't know where they'll find their next meal.

The UN, EU, and nearly every other government and multilateral organization have called on Israel to lift the blockade and, now, launch a full investigation of the flotilla raid. But without massive pressure from their citizens, world leaders might limit their response to mere words -- as they have so many times before.

Let's make the world's outcry too loud to ignore. Join the petition for an independent investigation into the raid, accountability for those responsible, and an immediate end to the blockade in Gaza -- click to sign the petition, and then forward this message to everyone:

The petition will be delivered to the UN and world leaders, as soon as it reaches 200,000 names -- and again at every opportunity as it grows and leaders choose their responses. A massive petition at a moment of crisis like this one can demonstrate to those in power that sound bites and press releases aren't enough -- that citizens are paying attention and demanding action.

As the EU decides whether to expand its special trade relationship with Israel, as Obama and the US Congress set next year's budget for Israeli military aid, and as neighbours like Turkey and Egypt decide their next diplomatic steps -- let's make the world's voice unignorable: it's time for truth and accountability on the flotilla raid, and it's time for Israel to comply with international law and end the siege of Gaza. Sign now and pass this message along:

Most people everywhere still share the same dream: for two free and viable states, Israel and Palestine, to live side by side. But the blockade, and the violence used to defend it, poisons that dream. As a columnist wrote to his fellow Israelis today in the newspaper Ha'aretz, "We are no longer defending Israel. We are now defending the siege. The siege itself is becoming Israel's Vietnam."

Thousands of pro-peace activists in Israel today protested the raid and the blockade in demonstrations from Haifa, to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem -- joining demonstrations around the world. Regardless of which side threw the first punch or fired the first shot (the Israeli military claims it did not initiate the violence), Israel's leaders sent helicopters of armed storm-troopers to raid a convoy of ships in international waters bringing medicine and supplies to Gaza, and some now lay dead.

Their lives cannot be brought back. But perhaps, together, we can make this dark moment a turning point -- if we arise with an unshakable call for justice, and an unbreakable dream of peace.

With hope,

Ricken, Alice, Raluca, Paul, Iain, Graziela and the rest of the Avaaz team

SOURCES:

Live coverage from Al Jazeera:
http://blogs.aljazeera.net/middle-east/2010/05/31/live-coverage-israels-flotilla-raid

Live coverage from the Guardian:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2010/may/31/israel-troops-gaza-ships

"The Second Gaza War: Israel lost at sea" - Bradley Burston, Ha'aretz
http://www.haaretz.com/blogs/a-special-place-in-hell/a-special-place-in-hell-the-second-gaza-war-israel-lost-at-sea-1.293246

Analysis of violence from IDF's perspective from Debka, reporters with ties to Israeli intelligence:
http://debka.com/article/8824/

70% of Gazans suffer from food insecurity - 2008 ICRC report, cited by al Jazeera:
http://english.aljazeera.net/focus/2010/05/20105319333613851.html

Analysis of possible political consequences of the flotilla attack:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gtowfFjiFD4HYdHuYgxydKNwVRDwD9G2B3880

NICOSIA DEAREST

2010-06-02T18:43:00.001+03:00

MUNICIPAL HALL LEDRAS STREET
14 – 25/06/2010

A city that keeps shifting, sprawling through its walls, constantly changing faces while growing larger and more complex, Nicosia is alive and breathing. A place to call home for its citizens, a place to call capital for Cypriots and a place to find a home for its visitors.

Recognizing the need for creating a visual identity for the city of Nicosia, the Applied Arts Department of Frederick University, has initiated the idea of founding the organization ‘Nicosia Dearest’. The organization will run as the official promotional office for the city, showcasing its culture, history, tourism, entertainment and urban life. Foremost objective of ‘Nicosia Dearest’ will be to produce a promotional campaign for Nicosia, and shaping a distinct character which will communicate the spirit of the city both visually and contextually.

Students from the Graphic and Advertising Design Program of Frederick University have been creatively engaged on this project and along with the support and cooperation of the Nicosia Municipality, will showcase their work on the upcoming exhibition ‘Nicosia Dearest’ on Μοnday, June 14th, 2010 at the Municipal Hall on Ledras street.

Toxics Action at Dell HQ, Texas

2010-05-27T18:28:00.002+03:00

In 2006 when computer giant Dell announced they'd quit using the most harmful toxic chemicals in their electronics by the end of 2009.

At the time that was a great start and CEO Michael Dell set the bar for the rest of the industry with his public commitment. Now it's almost June 2010 and Dell still hasn't made a single computer that's free from PVC plastic and brominated flame retardants (BFRs).

Meanwhile many of its competitors have already done so. Why is Dell going back on its very public promise? There's no excuse. You can ask Dell to do better.

Please write and tell CEO Michael Dell to honour his commitments and phase out the use of toxic chemicals.

Eoin Dubsky
Online Organizer Greenpeace International
http://www.greenpeace.org Facebook Twitter

Daniel Cohn-Bendit's speech on the Greek economy crisis

2010-05-21T13:11:00.006+03:00

We, at Cyprus Social Ecology Movement, feel the need to congratulate the Green MEP, Daniel Cohn-Bendit for his passionate speech in European Parliament regarding the Greek economy crisis.

During his speech, Daniel Cohn-Bendit, uncovered the financial games against Greece, from countries within EU. "France and Germany" said, "are forcing Greece to take drastic measures against the Greek people, and on the other hand, they demand from Greek government to purchase army equipment of billion euros worth, from them.

Daniel Cohn-Bendit pointed out the absolute need for full demilitarization of Greece and Turkey, being the only solution for financial recovery of these two countries. He also gave emphasis on the urgent need of the Turkish troop's withdrawal from Cyprus!

We feel that Daniel Cohn-Bendit's speech constitutes a serious and very positive and realistic opinion and we strongly believe that our Government, as well as the Greek and Turkish governments, should take well into consideration.

Unfortunately, this statement by the co-president of the Green/EFA group in the EP should be given more value and attention by all of us.

The fact that, till today, there was no official reaction by the Cyprus Green Party, is giving us the impression that we spoil every opportunity we have for the solution of our problem and we avoid to listen any realistic suggestions.
The political orientation of a Green party should be based on such opinions, away from any nationalistic and separative positions.

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

Caroline Lucas becomes Green Party's first MP

2010-05-07T16:41:00.001+03:00

The Green Party has gained its first ever Westminster MP. In a major electoral success, the party's leader and MEP Caroline Lucas took the seaside seat of Brighton Pavilion from Labour.

Britain is the only country in Europe which has never had a Green MP elected to its national parliament.

Her victory is a remarkable achievement for the party, which has sought to put environmental issues at the heart of the General Election campaign.

Caroline Lucas, centre, celebrates becoming Britain's first Green Party MP after winning the Brighton Pavilion seat

Speaking after the result was announced she said: "Today the people of Brighton Pavilion have made history by electing Britain's first Green MP to Westminster.

"Thank you so much for putting the politics of hope above the politics of fear and I pledge that I will do my very best to do you proud.

"For once the word historic fits the bill."

One of the most tightly contested seats in the country, Brighton Pavilion was once a solid Tory stronghold, which was snatched by Labour in 1997.

Miss Lucas, 49, beat off female rivals Nancy Platts for Labour and Charlotte Vere for the Conservatives in an exciting three-way race.

A CND activist in her youth and a campaigner against US weapons on British soil, privately-educated Miss Lucas has more recently been a leader of the Stop the War Coalition.

he Green party leader has been hailed by the left-wing Guardian newspaper as one of their 'eco-heroes'.

Miss Lucas campaign was boosted by the support of actress Joanna Lumley who urged voters to shun mainstream politicians and back the Greens.

The Greens have mounted their biggest-ever general election campaign this year fielding candidates in 335 constituencies.

Her victory represents a shift towards a more radical style of politics.

As well as campaigning for environmental issues, the party backs higher taxation on the rich, permanent taxes on bankers bonuses and 20mph speed limits in all towns.

At the last election, Labour MP David Lepper took the seat with a 5,000 majority. But he announced his retirement before the General Election.

The Green party have been steadily building up their polling base in Brighton. At the last General Election, the Greens polled a best ever 22per cent of the vote in the constituency and have 9 local councillors in the area.

Cyprus and Denmark top the EU garbage heap

2010-04-20T17:26:00.003+03:00

CYPRIOTS Danes and the Irish produce the most waste per capita in the whole European Union, while the Czechs, Poles and Slovaks the least, data from the EU's statistics office showed yesterday.

Eurostat said one Dane produced on average 802 kg of municipal waste in 2008, the highest rate in the 27-nation bloc. Cypriots generated 770 kg of waste on average – 10 kilos per person more than the average American - and the Irish 733 kg.

However the data also showed that even though Danes produce more waste, Denmark burned 54 per cent of its waste, recycled a further 24 per cent and composted 18 per cent, putting only 4 per cent of it into landfills.

Cyprus, however, stowed 87 per cent of the rubbish in landfills and recycled only the remaining 13 per cent, compared to 48 per cent in Germany – the top country for recycling in the EU.

The island was in sixth highest position when it came to landfill dumping. But taking into account the fact that the other countries ahead of Cyprus - five eastern European states - only produce half the amount of rubbish per person, the situation changes.

The Czechs produced 306 kilos of rubbish per capita, the Poles 320 kilos and the Slovaks 328 kilos.

The figures leave Cyprus clearly in the landfill lead along with Malta, which although produces 100 kilos per person less, throws 97 per cent on landfills and recycles only three per cent.

Environment Commissioner Charalambos Theopemptou said yesterday the difference between Cyprus and Denmark when it came to the waste issue was that the latter had efficient system to dispose of it. “This is the difference. It’s what you do with the waste after you produce it,” he said.

“Other countries have policies to cut waste, strict checks strict recycling laws. Not anyone who wants is allowed to dump waste.

He said that in other countries companies, supermarkets and others who produce a lot of waste are not allowed to dump them in landfills. They are forced to take them for recycling.

“They are very strict,” he said. “We have landfills and we dump whatever we want.”

Last week DISY deputy Kyriacos Hadjiyiannis described Cyprus as an “open landfill” during a House

Environment Committee.

Chairman Andreas Fakontis said 113 landfills are currently in operation across Cyprus and there was absolutely no policy for scaling back the production of refuse. He said no measures are taken to cut waste and save money by having smaller waste processing units.

He also said abandoned landfills were one of the most serious environmental problems in Cyprus. “While they are closed, they continue to be sources of pollution; the ground continues to be contaminated; the aquifers; toxic substances are produced and foul smell,” Fakontis said.

Fakontis added that people continue to dump rubbish in these landfills illegally.

The House wants inspectors who will be responsible to penalise those who dump waste illegally by imposing a substantial on-the-spot fine.

Fakontis said the government has given its okay but these ‘green’ inspectors have not been appointed yet।

CyprusMail

Stop “Red Arrow’s” dangerous games….

2010-03-31T00:26:00.002+03:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement is considering the “Red Arrows” RAF planes exhibition completely unacceptable to be held in the air space of Cyprus

These exhibitions have nothing to offer to our country except the dangers of a possible accident and of course the air and noise pollution to the people living in the involved areas.

We demand immediate action against the authorization of such exhibitions by the local authorities and Cyprus Government. We feel that it is about time to stop being the “good guys” for the British Army Forces based in Cyprus and to put an end to this ridiculous action, every now and then in the sky of our country.

The continuous visits of “Red Arrows” in Cyprus are, beside the dangers, affecting the reputation and the independence of the Republic of Cyprus

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

Commission sends written warning to Cyprus on air quality

2010-03-30T21:27:00.000+03:00

The European Commission is pursuing infringement proceedings against five member states, including Cyprus, for failing to comply with the EU's air quality standards for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10.

These particles, emitted mainly by industry, traffic and domestic heating, can cause asthma, cardiovascular problems, lung cancer and premature death. Slovenia and Sweden are being referred to the European Court of Justice, while final written warnings have been sent to Cyprus, Portugal and Spain. In a separate case, Bulgaria is receiving a final written warning over its failure to control concentration levels of sulphur dioxide.

The Commission's action follows the entry into force in June 2008 of the new EU Air Quality Directive, which allows member states to request, under certain conditions and for specific parts of the country, limited extra time to meet the PM10 standard which has been in force since 2005.

At the beginning of 2009, first warning letters were sent to member states that had by then not submitted notifications or had not notified the Commission about all air quality zones exceeding the limit values for PM10.

Following this warning, most of the member states involved submitted notifications for a time extension. Although Cyprus, Portugal and Spain did submit notifications for time extensions, the Commission rejected most of the notified air quality zones on the grounds that they did not meet all the conditions required by the Directive. The Commission has therefore decided to send a final written warning to the three member states.

EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik stated that ''air pollution is bad for our health'' and that ''member states must comply with EU air quality standards quickly and reduce emissions.''

''I am pleased to see that over recent years we have met PM10 limit values in a number of areas throughout Europe, but much more effort is still needed if we want full compliance,'' he added.

(Cyprus Weekly)

Minimum wage increased to €840

2010-03-30T21:22:00.000+03:00

THE MINIMUM wage is being increased to €887 from €840 effective from Thursday, the Labour Advisory Committee announced yesterday.

Final approval for the 5.6 per cent increase, which will bring the minimum wage to 50 per cent of the average national wage, rests with the Cabinet.

“The minimum wage, I would like to underline, is a tool which affects the most susceptible sectors of the employed population, and one which we intend to utilise in a correct manner,” said Labour Minister Sotiroula Charalambous after the meeting.

The minimum wage, for employees who have been at their place of employment for over six months, is currently fixed at €840. This will go to €887.

The minimum wage for new employees, who have been working at their place of employment for less than six months, and which currently stands at €791, is set to be increased to €835.

The measure drew sharp criticism from employers’ organisations, who said it would “create market distortions” and impact negatively on industry.

(The Cyprus Mail)

Stop the destruction of an ancient church

2010-02-05T18:51:00.002+02:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement strongly protests against Cyprus Churches’ plans to construct an enormous new church in front of the ancient and historic chapel of Ayia Paraskevi in Akropolis, near Hilton hotel.

This new and very expensive church will close the only free side of the ancient church which is currently surrounded by the huge building of the Central Bank and the Head offices of the Bank of Cyprus.

In an effort to stop these plans, the Cyprus Social Ecology Movement is organizing a protest on Sunday, 21st February, 2010, at 10 am in the front yard of the ancient church and calls upon all people to join us.

We need to draw awareness and show our will to stop the destruction of a historic and cultural monument which has been the point of reference of the capital of Cyprus for over 500 years.

Government to secure sufficient water supplies

2010-02-05T18:43:00.000+02:00

The government is fully aware of the challenges ahead and through the implementation of a sustainable water management policy is taking all necessary measures to ensure water security now and in the future, Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources and the Environment Michalis Polynikis said Wednesday.

Addressing the fourth annual Water and Energy Exchange International Conference in Limassol, Polynikis said the primary objective is to secure enough quantities of potable water to cover at least the basic needs of the population and to eliminate dependency on weather conditions by installing sea water desalination plants.

Despite the construction of many surface water reservoirs since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960, the dependency on rainfall still continues, he added.

The long and frequent periods of droughts, he said, have proved that storing rainwater into reservoirs only allows short-term planning and is not a sustainable long-term solution.

''Currently one mobile and two permanent desalination plants are in operation and additional desalination plants are planned to be constructed in the next couple of years with the objective to achieve water security so that every person has continuous access to safe water'', he added.

At the same time, he stressed, attention is turned on other non-conventional water resources, such as recycling of treated municipal effluents in order to cover the water needs of the agricultural sector and ensure a gradual integration into the water balance. Recycled water for irrigation and recharge purposes is a growing resource in Cyprus.

The Minister announced earlier in the week the end to water cuts, which were introduced about two years ago following sever drought.
(CNA)

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement

2009-10-11T02:10:00.003+03:00

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement was founded in an effort to raise awarness of the people in Cyprus for the very serious social and environmental probles and issues.

Cyprus Social Ecology Movement is NOT just another political party. Actually is not a political party at all.

Our aim is to help, all together, away from "Leaders", big chiefs and political games we hope to succeed a better quality of life, a cleaner and healthier island and a respectful living standard.

We call upon all people living in Cyprus to join our movement. Everyone is welcomed. No matter in which nationality, religious or ethnicity belongs.

In our strungle, everybody is important and has a very serious role to play.

For more information please write us to: gr.greens@gmail.com

MISSING PERSONS: SHOCKING NEW TESTIMONY SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED

2009-02-03T16:37:00.002+02:00

In a shocking revelation on Turkish Star TV Turkish actor Attila Olgac confessed last week that he killed Greek Cypriot prisoners of war in cold blood during the invasion of the Turkish army in 1974.

“I killed ten people”, he said and explained that the first one he shot on the head was a 19-year old Greek Cypriot national guardsman who was tied with hands behind his back. "As I went to him he spat on my face and I shot him in the head" he said.
Olgac, who stars in a popular TV series “The valley of the wolves”, said that after he killed the Greek Cypriot soldier he killed “nine more”.
More than 1,600 of Greek Cypriots have been missing since 1974 and although 400 identifications by DNA have revealed the identity of the deceased, accounts by people like Attila Olgac should provide info on the identity, location and circumstances under which these particular deaths and “disappearances” occurred.
Regarded as a serious breach of Article 13, of the Geneva Convention, the next day of the confession found the leadership of the Cyprus government, legal experts and The Committee of the Missing Persons, planning the next move.
It is important that this atrocity is examined and investigated with great determination. The time has come to question the responsibility of the Turkish army for the war crimes it committed during the invasion of 1974.
The Cyprus Government has to insist that the Turkish Army withdraws from the island and the necessary steps need to be taken to investigate the testimony of Attilla Olgac and all other crimes committed during the 1974 invasion.
Turkey continues to withhold all rights to searching for missing persons in the occupied areas of Cyprus and refuses to release any records concerning the missing people.
We believe our demand for the withdrawal of Turkish troops can only be strengthened by this latest confession”.
It has to be remembered that after a military coup by the Greek junta against the legal government of President Makarios, Turkey invaded Cyprus and has since occupied 37% of the territory of our country.

Hidden Costs of Unsustainable Development

2008-11-19T12:58:00.001+02:00

The need for expensive desalination is just one cost of over-development. Through rapid, unplanned building, Cyprus has virtually destroyed most of its underground water resources by over-extraction and the subsequent destruction of what should be a renewable resource. And that’s not all.

Peyia example again
Other examples of required infrastructure to support new building, funded by the taxpayer, are extensive road improvements, storm drainage and central sewage treatment. Peyia once again serves as an example of the hidden costs of development. The building boom of the past ten years has added thousands of new buildings, all on septic systems for toilet and household liquid waste. Such dense construction in a short period has added considerable strain on the land and there is evidence of leakage into the underground water. Boreholes in some areas have e-coli contamination. EU legislation requires a central sewage treatment plant for coastal towns with a population over 1,000, but this is only now being studied and it will be several years before this is in place in Peyia.
In addition, serious saltwater intrusions into the underground water have already been documented. From 1990 to a peak in 2000, extraction rates in Peyia quadrupled. For some time, underground water from areas containing high nitrates and salinity is mixed with water from areas that are not so badly polluted. This results in a deteriorating quality of the water supply, although the analyses indicate that the water currently still meets EU standards.
There is also a problem with municipalities extending the boundaries of their water systems. Each town has speciifc areas that they are obliged to provide with water. If any building permission is granted beyond this area, it is the builder’s responsibility to provide water for that development, as a condition of the grant of planning permission. What often happens, however, is that new buildings are constructed and then there is a request that the Municipal water be extended to cover the new houses. This of course puts great strain on the supply system and adds greatly to the costs of the Municipality when it extends the water network.
Serious problems exist in many areas of Peyia because of a lack of rainwater drainage. Over the last decade, many of the ravines and river beds have been built upon, which results in serious flooding when it rains. The very centre of the village is a virtual rushing torrent during even modest rainfall. With the natural drainage areas now covered in concrete, and no storm drainage in place, there is nowhere for the rain to go. In October 2006, Peyia suffered damage during a storm which resulted in a flash flood sweeping down from the higher, now built-up areas. By the time this torrent reached the coastal areas, it was well over a metre high and roaring along at a dangerous rate, sweeping away all that was in its path. At about 8:30 am, it swamped a seaside hotel, which was inundunated with a wall of mud and debris, sending tourists and staff scurrying for their lives during breakfast. It was a miracle no one was injured or killed in Peyia, although two people died in the next village which has also suffered from heavy, unplanned development.
The Municipality of Peyia took this very seriously. Requests were sent to the Ministry of Interior for financial support to clear the ravines and gullies of the storm debris and to fund the needed anti-flood culverts. It was the Ministry of Interior’s own Townplanning and Housing Department that had approved all the over-building that was the apparent cause of the storm damage. Unfortunately, Peyia’s request for assistance was denied. The community, now facing the constant threat of flooding whenever there is a storm, had little choice but to fund the anti-flooding measures from its own resources. So far over 2 million euros have been spent on this drainage project and it is still not completed. Some doubt that it will be effective, especially since the water is merely being diverted to the sea, which will cause pollution. It would have been prohibitively expensive to build a proper holding reservoir and filtering system to recycle the rainwater. There has also been a recent scandal about a resident who moved the surveyor’s markings so as to avoid damage to his land.

Lessons learned?
Some day soon we hope that townplanning in Cyprus will incorporate the requirement for proper infrastructure BEFORE granting permits for building sprees. Not only is it more cost effective to do this before rather than after, but it is also more logical. This is the usual procedure in most EU countries where developers must contribute to the costs of the new infrastructure needed to service their developments.
The challenge facing us today in Cyprus is : do we have the political will to change a system where consumers pay for costly infrastructure while developers make even more profits? This is a classical case of privatising profit while socialising costs.
It is up to all of us to stop it!

Peyia – A Case Study in Unsustainability

2008-11-19T12:54:00.004+02:00

Last year, an EU funded programme with Peyia as a case study in Sustainable Water Management reported that “although the [Peyia] aquifer is not yet subject to dramatic seawater intrusion, degradation of the water quality due to excessive pumping has been observed in some areas”.

Water specialists from around the Mediterranean area armed with all the data spelled it out that Peyia has a serious problem relating to the availability of future water supplies of decent quality. Senior Cyprus Water Department officials from Nicosia stated categorically that Peyia has a serious water problem. In fact all of the experts agree that Peyia is in trouble regarding water.
Peyia is running out of water. It is as simple and as stark as that.
Frightening prospect? Absolutely. Sense of urgency in Peyia? Absolutely not.
Peyia Councillor Linda Leblanc, however, is deeply concerned about this situation. A Green Party member, she states, “We now find ourselves in the position where, in order to feed the frenzy of unsuitable, unsustainable development over the last decade, the Municipality has depleted and damaged its precious underground water resources and has already been forced to stop pumping from some boreholes due to saltwater intrusion.”
With the drought natural replenishment is reduced, causing great stress on the aquifer. In these circumstances, it is imperative to reduce extraction from underground water. If damage continues, the Peyia aquifer will be destroyed forever. Underground water should be managed sustainably so that future generations can support themselves from this renewable resource.
Leblanc is worried that safeguards are still not in place in Peyia, especially so in light of the fact that the onslaught of mega-building continues. Peyia did not have any water cuts this summer, despite reductions in supplies from the Asprokremmos Dam and despite recommendations that pumping from boreholes be reduced due to drought conditions. In addition, her written request to the Mayor (in June) asking for specific details of the pumping and consumption and analyses of water has remained unanswered.
In Peyia, people have still not developed a water savings consciousness and even the Municipality itself continues to use hosepipes with drinking water to water the roses right outside its offices – in the middle of the day!

Desalination for Peyia?
But even worse, in Leblanc’s opinion, is the Mayor and Council’s new interest in a desalination plant. She disagrees with this approach, saying that desalination is a last resort due to high cost, pollution, intrusion into protected coastal zones and lack of controls.
She asks, “Where will all these mobile desalination units be located – on the beach?”
Two hotels in Peyia have already applied for permits for mobile desalination units (the Coral Beach and Thalassa hotels owned by Leptos). Cyprus Environment Commissioner Charalambous Theopemptou has concerns, among other things, about who will monitor water quality and pollution and about exemptions from Environmental Impact Assessments for such mobile units producing up to 1,500 cubic metres per day.
Water statistics for Peyia indicate that almost 1% of consumers use about 30% of the water. These profligate consumers happen to be in the tourist areas where the hotels are located. Leblanc also wonders why Peyia Municipality would need its own desalination plant if these two hotels have their own units, as this would free up a lot of water for other consumers. Leblanc feels that desalination in Peyia would be used to fuel even more building. She says, “Peyia seems to prove the link between the rush for more desalination plants and even more unsustainable development. Isn’t it time that the public is properly informed and that residents of Peyia, not just the vested interests, can participate in making crucial decisions about our future sustainability?”
The public needs to be properly informed so that they understand the vast costs and consequences of desalination and how this seems set to fuel even more unsustainable development. One wonders why, at this late stage, the government has still not implemented simple legislation on water conservation measures, especially concerning new building standards.
The inevitable question pops into mind: Cui Bono?

THE FRESHWATER CRISIS

2008-11-19T10:18:00.003+02:00

Only a hermit or an ostrich would be unaware that we are facing a critical moment in the supply of freshwater in Cyprus, but neither has its head in the sand all the time.

This summer has seen almost daily media coverage of the crisis, but how often do we stop to really think about the seriousness of the situation? In July the Environment Commissioner, Charalampos Theopemptou, emphasised the warnings given in the paper on climate change and water published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The facts as presented by the IPCC are these:

· Rainfall in the Mediterranean will drop by 20%.
· Groundwater recharges in the Southern Mediterranean will drop by 70% by 2050.
· Expected rise in sea levels will increase the salinity of groundwater supplies, affecting the quality of drinking water.
· Consecutive days without water will increase, threatening agriculture and forests. (Trees stressed by drought are more vulnerable to disease and there is an increased risk of forest fires.)
This is a prospect we cannot ignore. Climate change is with us, however much we debate the causes.

Measures to conserve and ensure an adequate supply of freshwater require a unified policy for water management.
In Cyprus, part of the problem lies in the fragmentation of responsibilities and authority, and a lack of enforcement. Sustainable solutions based on proper management of consumption and supply should be put in place as soon as possible.
As individuals and households we can all make savings by thinking carefully about our use of water; water authorities can repair leaks in the supply network; grey water can be recycled for non-potable use in the home and garden (low-tech method, use a bowl in the kitchen sink and bathroom basin); rainwater can be collected and stored; drought resistant plants and crops can be introduced, encouraging use of native tree planting, cacti, succulents etc.; drip irrigation can be used instead of sprinklers; legislation to make the installation of recycling and sewage systems mandatory in all new buildings; proper management of water usage in swimming pools by mandatory use of covers to reduce evaporation; limiting the numbers of swimming pools; and of course pricing water realistically will make us all think twice before we waste it.
The availability of clean, drinkable, freshwater is something we all expect, but do we realise just how much we use? Here’s a figure:
1,000 cubic metres per annum is the minimum water each person requires for drinking, hygiene, and growing food. The volume is equivalent to 2/5 of an Olympic-size swimming pool. (Scientific American, August 2008)

Ideally, we would like that water to be the fresh kind which falls from the sky; after all, desalinated water is manufactured water and comes with a significant environmental and energy-usage cost. A recent study by the WWF calculates that the average UK household use of water for drinking and washing per person per day is approximately 150 litres.
Here are some more figures:
One 18-hole golf course can use as much water in a year as a town of 10,000 houses. 9 litres per sq.m. per day are needed to keep a fairway or tee looking green. (Guardian Weekly, July 29, 2005)

Do we really need 14 golf courses in Cyprus, the majority in the Paphos district, when the citizen copes with cuts in the water supply and the farmers who grow our food have their allocation drastically reduced?
Do we think about our water footprint? Coffee production consumes 2% of the world’s water; one cotton T-shirt requires 7,000 litres of water; the production of 1 kilo of beef requires 16,000 litres of water (the United Nations has recently called for a reduction in meat consumption in order to conserve water resources). Look at www.waterfootprint.org to calculate your water footprint.
Desalination is not a sustainable solution to the freshwater crisis in Cyprus. It encourages over-use of water, is a polluting process and all consumers will eventually have to pay higher electricity bills as Cyprus exceeds the energy targets set by the EU, resulting in considerable fines. If, as has been suggested, the Cyprus government denies the golf resorts the use of recycled water (allocating it for agricultural use) and the golf courses are dependent on desalination, who will ultimately pay the EU fines for exceeding energy targets, the ordinary consumer or the developers?
There are many alternative approaches to ensuring an adequate supply for all, beginning with the setting up of an independent water body which will implement unified water policies throughout the island and greater awareness of each individual’s personal responsibility in relation to their consumption of freshwater.

DESALINATION……WHAT IS IT?

2008-11-19T10:14:00.002+02:00

The most frequently and enthusiastically promoted remedy for alleviating the long-term water shortage in Cyprus is desalination. This involves the construction of mobile or fixed desalination plants or units that will remove the salt from seawater in order to manufacture drinkable water.

This process has several important environmental and economic impacts. We should therefore be asking some questions regarding its suitability as a solution for the water supply problem that Cyprus faces due to cyclical droughts and the projected deteriorating conditions that Cyprus will face in the future due to the effects of climate change in the Mediterranean.

- What is desalination?
- What are the costs and benefits of desalination? What are the alternatives to desalination?
These questions are comprehensively answered in the WWF report Making Water.

Desalination: option or distraction for a thirsty world? (June 2007).
The major economic impact is clearly stated in the report: desalination is the most energy intensive method of water manufacture. The energy required by the process will add to the total carbon emissions of Cyprus at a time when we should be working towards a reduction in order to meet EU targets. Failure to meet these targets will result in large fines that will inevitably be passed on to the general consumer through higher electricity bills. This is believed by some to outweigh the benefits of choosing desalination as a solution in preference to alternative methods of water supply management. Renewable energy such as solar is generally considered unviable for large-scale desalination due to cost and large areas of expensive coastal land required at current levels of the technology.

The environmental impacts of the process affect the marine ecosystems through the location of the intake and discharge structures, especially near sensitive marine or coastal environments. Seawater is a habitat for the many small life forms that will disappear up the intake pipe, resulting in long-term depletion of plankton, eggs and fish larvae.

Discharging the heated brine back into the sea alters the delicate and important salinity balance of the marine ecosystem through a rise in temperature and concentration of products such as salt and boron. It is acknowledged that temperature and salt content of seawater is critical for the reproduction and survival of marine species. Additional pollution occurs through contamination with corrosion by-products.

Issues of sustainability also arise. Other Mediterranean countries have seen an explosion of development based on the assumption of water availability. The WWF report states that
“Spain’s natural environments, many of its nature reserves and indeed, the natural assets found attractive by so many of the foreign residents and tourists are being damaged by the development which is underwritten by an assumption that water will always be available and be made available – whatever the economic, environmental and political costs.” (p. 35)
It can be argued that, for similar reasons, multiple desalination units could pose a comparable, significant threat to the unique Cyprus environment. Is this what we want? Some may think that we are getting close to it in certain areas of the Paphos district.

Desalination is a manufacturing process, i.e. industrial water; desalination is a distraction from water conservation, water efficiency, and water recycling; desalination is a pollutant; desalination is expensive.

Island-wide average loss from leakages is estimated to be 30%. Paphos actually exceeds this figure, with up to 35% lost between 1999 and 2005, to a cost of euros 3.5 million. In light of these losses, wouldn’t it be wiser to put resources into upgrading delivery systems rather than trying to fix the water problem through costly desalination? There is much talk of mobile units for hotels but the cost is higher for such small units, reaching up to euros 1.5 per cubic metre. In addition, there are concerns about intrusions into protected coastal zones and the government’s recent decision to waive environmental impact assessments for desalination units producing up to 1,500 cubic metres per day.

All of us in Cyprus must first develop and foster a better water conservation consciousness before we stumble into drastic solutions such as desalination.

What are the alternatives?
The alternatives would first and foremost be
A unified policy for water use and management that would address supply and distribution through water storage and conservation, e.g. repair and renewal of the network of pipes; rainwater collection; prevention of evaporation from swimming pools; domestic, industrial and commercial water recycling; supply of water for agriculture from treatment plants; legislation for mandatory installation of water saving measures and technology in new buildings etc. In other words, a sustainable policy for water.

An illegality – more disgrace

2008-11-19T10:13:00.001+02:00

It started with a change of name from Mavrokolompos which was then baptised “Adonis Baths”. For obvious commercial reasons, someone made use of public land, a practice which has found suitable ground in our country. Before us was erected a huge statue of only 10 metres of an ancient God, a really ugly monster, without planning permission, which insults the aesthetics of this beautiful area.

The attractive name the owner invented complemented the natural beauty and the small waterfall became a special attraction with many visitors who were called upon to pay a very insignificant amount (last year the entrance price was 4 pounds a person). The Paphos Greens District Committee launched dozens of complaints especially concerning the distasteful entrance price. After the intervention of the Green Party Member of Parliament to the Ministry of the Interior, we have achieved the restoration of a delusion which operated in an unlawful manner, including the removal of the name “Adonis Baths” from the official government map. In such an especially beautiful area, the Community Council of Kili must ensure the free entrance of visitors. But, in an unusual manner, the Cyprus Tourism Organization actually rewarded an illegality that has continued to exist here for years. How could CTO include it in its programme, inviting our guests to visit the “Baths of Adonis”? If the Community of Kili is not able to secure free entrance to the baths then the government should undertake to restore order in a situation that has been allowed to continue for years. We are not against any private business whose workings are based on the law and follows the rules of the government without inventing myths, entrance tolls, statues, etc. It is unfortunate that, in conclusion, the facts are that the drowning of a visitor must be swept under the carpet and the issue of the safety of those who use the “Baths”. Finally, who takes responsibility for those who enjoy their bath while having paid entrance to A PUBLIC PLACE?

Church in the Park: Theatre of the Absurd

2008-11-19T10:12:00.003+02:00

The Paphos Green Party District Committee expresses again its opposition to the erection of a cathedral in the Municipal Park. In an era where green areas in our town are ravaged, apparently owing to the principle of “development”, it is a sacrilege to lay a hand on the only remaining park in the centre of our town.

Day by day the park languishes and is destroyed because of clear obstinancy and the dispute that broke out years ago between the Bishop of Paphos and the Paphos Municipal Council. The issue started with the former Bishop who is now the Archbishop, and unfortunately is continued by his successor.
The Bishop announced that he is ready to submit building plans and ask for the approval of the Municipal Council. How can a building permit be issued for a public area that is a park with a building factor of 0%?
We like to believe that the law exists for every citizen of this country and is applied without deviations and delays. This situation tests the credibility of the Local Council who will be called upon to give its consent.
The constant irresolution of the Municipal Council concerning its handling of different issues leaves us completely disappointed (the Mousalla case, the coastal area, disappearing green areas, handling of parks, etc.). We hope that this time our Municipal Council officers will stand tall in the circumstances and not disappoint the people of Paphos (again).
The Paphos Green party calls on Paphians to fight together to save our park because this land belongs not only to the Church but also to the members of the Church who are all residents of Paphos.
With his immense business activities, the Bishop of Paphos can erect a Church anywhere else in Paphos (and even bigger that 500 square metres).
What the Park needs to be done is immediate upgrading and embellishment. This must be done by the Bishop of Paphos, by the Mayor and by the Municipal Council.
This is exactly what the people want.

Light a candle for peace and a United Cyprus!

2008-09-04T12:22:00.001+03:00

World War II, which was one of the most murderous and harsh wars of the world, started on 1st September 1939 with the occupation of Poland. Then, 1st of September was called “World Peace Day” since the war caused millions of people to die, get injured, become permanently incapacitated; millions of children became orphans without home and schools. The main focus of the day was to prevent such a disaster from happening again. The pacifists all over the world on 1st September gather in the streets in order to cry out for peace and protest against wars.

Unfortunately, despite the will of communities which cry out for world peace and a world without exploitation, this aim has not been attained. Still in many countries, there has been death, blood, tears, hunger, poverty, cruelty which means retrogressive scramble-wars. Wars have become like a daily routine in the Middle-East and in many countries of Africa. The imperialist powers do not refrain from violence, wars, exploitation, distraction and force just to gain more interest, wider market and authority as well as resources. The United States of America, which turned The Middle-East to a pool of blood, seeks for the opportunity to hit Iran while its massacre is still going on in Afghanistan and Iraq. Moreover, the break out of conflict in the Caucasus caused thousands of innocent people including women and children to die in a very short period of time.

Just like the majority of the communities in the world, the Cypriots also suffered from wars. The wounds have still not been healed since these people witnessed such inhuman situations and pain. Although many years have passed after the hot war, apart from Peace, there has not been any official resolution in terms of “ceasefire”. Even though people do not constantly think about war, all Cypriots live on the island with the danger of war. Imperialist powers and their local collaborators and followers try to stand up for themselves; therefore they do not wish a real and permanent solution and peace in Cyprus. It should not be forgotten that, the nationalists, chauvinists, fascists and even the “separatists who wear a mask of peace” will continue to prevent solution, just as they have been doing up to this date.

Therefore, it is crucial to have a common active struggle for Peace, with determination, will and demand. The task of establishing peace should not be left only in the hands of the “elected leaders”. Regardless of their ethnic origins, all people living in Cyprus should take the initiative, take steps forward together in order to struggle for Peace and reach the aim of a united Cyprus, rise up their voices with determination; for the necessity of peace and brotherhood of communities is a very crucial high spot. There is no doubt that this brotherhood is essential more than anything, during this sensitive period. This common struggle of communities in Cyprus will not only disturb the powers which try to prevent peace in Cyprus but it is also the only and unique way to achieve peace and permanent solution on the island.

The Cyprus Green Party was one of the main organizations who have decided to walk from the Greek Cypriot part of Nicosia (Eleftheria Square) and from the Turkish Cypriot part of Nicosia (Kuğulu Park) at the same time 7.00 PM on Monday 1st of September 2008 just to show our determination and will of Peace and a Unified Cyprus. Eight hundred people met in front of the Ledra Palace Hotel (the headquarters of the UN forces in Cyprus) to “light a candle for peace”. People sang songs and celebrate the beginning of our common struggle for peace.

Peyia Mayor says ‘no’ to dump

2008-08-08T20:02:00.003+03:00

(By Bejay Browne- Cyprus Mail)

THE MAYOR of Peyia is refusing to allow a new non-organic dump to be sited in his Municipality.Mayor Neophytos Akourshiotis is opposing the government proposed site, claiming it would be a disaster for the community.The new dump would be a place for building materials, rubble and the like to be deposited. Akourshiotis claims the weight and flow of traffic to and from the facility would have a negative effect on Peyia, and would spoil “an area of outstanding beauty”.“The stain on the environment would be catastrophic,” he added.

Fellow Peyia councillor Linda Leblanc has a more measured approach, noting all the facts need to be collected first.She told the Cyprus Mail:

‘It’s true the site would be for non-organic materials such as building rubble. In Europe there are some requirements to recycle these type of materials; unfortunately facilities for this are not yet in place in Cyprus.”Leblanc continued, “European policy seems to lean toward using old quarry sites, as in our case. This one is on the road heading towards Akoursos.”

She stressed: “I think the important thing here is too look at the bigger picture. This spot has been designated for this purpose by the central government, and so I believe there has to have been an environmental impact study. The Mayor is denying this, and I don’t know either way for certain.”“I do have mixed feelings about this project, but it needs to be put somewhere,” she added.“I think it’s gross hypocrisy on the part of Peyia, who have been filling dry riverbeds and gorges for years. They then built structures on top of this rubble. What happens if there is a flood or an earthquake,” she questioned. “It’s better to have a legal site. People in Peyia are used to dumping everywhere.“It’s really a case of, ‘not in my back yard’.”
In October 2006, torrential rainfall caused severe flooding in Paphos, destroying many homes and closing a hotel in Peyia. Two people lost their lives as they were swept away in a car by a torrent of water, which had built up in a dry riverbed, clogged with rubbish.Leblanc commented, “I think it makes sense to put this waste in the site of an old quarry. I was recently in England and visited an abandoned quarry, which had been filled in this way; it’s now a beautiful park. This process renews a site, it fills a scar on the landscape, and afterwards may be planted with trees, shrubs and plants.“I really think it’s up to the government now, they were the ones who designated this area. Peyia Municipality has taken the line to fight it, and I think we must wait to see how heavily the government will come down on Peyia.”This type of waste was previously being taken to a site in Marathounda.“The dump in Marathounda is now closed, as it is full, and in addition, doesn’t meet the legal requirements.“Everyone must take responsibility for their rubbish, there is more and more in Cyprus. As buildings go up daily, there is more garbage from construction.“I would like to see a proper impact assessment, but I don’t think the request for a site in Peyia is an unreasonable one. “It’s better to have a legal dump, which will be strictly operated, rather than dumping willy nilly across the countryside,” she concluded.

State Gallery is unable to showcase thousands of artworks

2008-08-08T19:45:00.007+03:00

[The Ambiguous Citizen by Helene Black, 98x98x6cmRusted steel, glass, mirror, paint, Murano glass, silver rings, aluminium frameCyprus State gallery collection]

HUNDREDS OF pieces of state-owned art works are being stored in poor conditions and run the risk of being destroyed or lost, the Green Party has warned.

Green Party Leader, George Perdikis, has sent a letter to parliamentary Education Committee Chairman, Nikos Tornaritis, urging the House to discuss relocating the State Art Gallery when deputies return from summer recess in October.

Perdikis described the situation as urgent. "Recently I visited the gallery, where I was informed that from the approximately 2,700 works of art that the gallery has, only 135 are on display in the renovated building on Stassinou Avenue. Exhibitions and exchanges of the works are not in effect because of practical difficulties, while many of the work are lent to Ministries, embassies abroad, etc."

Employees at the gallery confirmed that there are 2,749 works in total, 210 of them on display and that many works were kept in storage or are on loan to ministries and embassies.

“They are constantly at risk of getting lost, while the ones in the warehouses are not properly kept and preserved,” Perdikis said. The leader of the Greens also reported that “the art gallery is understaffed, with only three individuals employed acting as security guards/assistants and no specialised staff, such as art historians, conservationists, art managers or museologists."

The proposal is for the new gallery to be moved to the old Pallouriotissa Co-op, which is much bigger and can house all the works.

“The present situation is far from ideal,” Perdikis added. “They do not organise occasional exhibitions, tributes or retrospective exhibitions; lectures are not given, material is not published, there are no catalogues or brochures. There is no research."

The Green Party has tabled the issue for decision at the House Education Committee as a first step, he said.

“It is vital for a European country to have a gallery. If you don’t have a proper gallery, you lack culture,” Perdikis told the Sunday Mail.

THE BUILDING which currently houses the State Gallery of Contemporary Cypriot Art was designed and built in 1925-26 by the building contractor Michalakis Kouloumbris, who was also its first owner. It was used at different periods as a house, clinic and hotel. It is one of the oldest stone-built structures outside the walls of Nicosia and one of the first examples of urban architecture. The building was made the subject of a preservation order in 1972. In 1982, by order of the Council of Ministers, it was requisitioned and compulsorily acquired in order to be preserved, maintained and used for cultural purposes.

The restoration of the building and its conversion in to the State Gallery were undertaken by the Ministry of Education. It was officially inaugurated on June 28, 1990.

The works exhibited were chosen from the State Collection of Contemporary Cypriot Art by a special committee. The aim of the special committee was to succeed in the most adequate possible presentation of the artistic development of Cyprus from the beginning of the twentieth century up to the present day. The presentation covers the most important periods and trends which developed at various time.

A defining factor in the placing and often in the selection of specific works was the space, which always played a limiting role. Insufficient space also limits the way the committee can depict the development of Cypriot art.

The Education Ministry’s policy is to renew the works periodically, especially those of the younger artists so that other aspects of contemporary Cypriot art may be shown and public interest stimulated.
(By Marianna Pissa - Cyprus Mail)

Fine slapped on ground handlers

2008-08-08T19:41:00.001+03:00

The two companies that manage ground services at Larnaca and Paphos airports have been slapped with a heavy fine from the government.Minister of Transport and Works, Nikos Nikolaidis, imposed an administrative fine of 59,000 euros to LGS (for incidents at Paphos Airport) and a fine of 53,000 euros to Swissport (for various incidents at Larnaca airport). A fine of 2,500 euros, was also given for delays in getting luggage from the aircraft to the passengers in arrival terminals.Nikos Nikolaidis has asked representatives of Hermes Airports, as well as the heads of Swissport and LGS to meet him on Friday morning at Larnaca airport to discuss the situation.

(Famagusta Gazette)

Environment as a sign of peace

2008-08-08T07:58:00.001+03:00

Last week the leaders of the two main communities in Cyprus agreed to sixteen more building conference measures in order to prepare the ground of full fresh talks for a lasting and fare solution to the Cyprus Problem.

Cyprus is divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the island. Till then, the Turkish Cypriots are forced to move to the northern part, where they declare an illegal separate state.

Most of the conference measures are dealing with environmental issues. In details the two leaders decided about the:

Cooperation for the elimination of illegal dumping sites and the rehabilitation of the affected areas within the buffer zone
Cooperation for exchange of experience and information between environmental experts
Cooperation for the prevention of wildfires
Waste management – treatment-recycling
Awareness raising measures for water saving
Cooperation for the establishment of a common approach on mining and quarrying activities in Cyprus
Biodiversity and nature protection
Marine and maritime pollution management and control
Chemical pollution management and control
Asbestos pollution management and control
Historical pollution management and control

For the Cyprus Greens, these measures are a good sign for peace and reunion in the island.

EU plans action over new hunting season

2008-07-28T15:55:00.001+03:00

THE E.U. is planning measures against the Cypriot government for its decision last April to grant hunting licenses for crows, the Cyprus Green Party reported recently.
The announcement was made in a letter received by Greens leader George Perdikis from EU Environmental Commissioner, Stavros Dimas.

According to an announcement issued by the Greens yesterday, Dimas said that “the Commission has been informed about Cyprus’ decision to grant hunting licences for crows last spring, and based on evidence gathered it will put forward the case for violations”.
“The Commission is taking the appropriate measures to ensure that Cyprus is in full conformity with EU directives,” Dimas said.
The Greens said: “We hope that the granting of hunting licences for crows, which in essence are selected licences for turtledoves [and other migrating birds] will finally stop, following the EU’s reaction.”
Conservationists are opposed granting of such licenses. Executive Manager of Birdlife Cyprus, Martin Hellicar, said the Interior Minister decided to open a season for crows this spring. “But the actual reason was to allow hunters to shoot turtledoves, which is illegal and a violation of EU law,” he said.
Birdlife issued a complaint to the European Commission (EC) which is currently investigating the violation and is due to issue a warning.
“Authorities tried to open a hunting season for turtledoves in the spring of 2007, when again after a complaint the EC warned them not to do so. Now they are trying to do this through the back door, undercover,” Hellicar said.
EU Bird Directives prohibit hunting during spring season in order to protect wild birds during their migration, especially turtledoves which are a threatened species due to their declining numbers.

MOUNT PENTADAKTYLOS IS BEING DEMOLISHED

2008-07-17T09:03:00.002+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party condemns Talat´s regime plans to grant more quarrying permits on the mount of Pentadaktylos, at the northern side of Cyprus.

Dozens of quarries are already uncontrollably destroying the mountain, without any consideration for the environmental impacts. It should be noted that in the occupied areas residents, as well as environmental organisations are protesting for the scandalous granting of permits.

The quarry products sustain the construction business in the occupied areas that is developing rapidly the last few years due to the construction of villas on Greek Cypriot lands.
The Cyprus Green Party believes that this issue needs to be added to the ongoing discussions for a solution to the Cyprus Problem.

THE CASE OF TRANSFERED WATER NEEDS TO BE EXAMINED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

2008-07-17T09:00:00.000+03:00

A request for an extraordinary meeting of the Committee on Institutions, Merit and the Commissioner for Administration (Ombudsman) has been submitted by the MP of the Cyprus Green Party Mr. George Perdikes, in order to examine the reasons why 50.000 tons of clean and very high priced water that was imported from Greece was dumped in the underground water supplies of Limassol. The water of course will not be wasted but the republic of Cyprus did not pay an exorbitant price just to reinforce our underground water supplies but to channel it directly to the fresh water supply system.

The House of Representative also needs to examine the provisions of the contract which, at a first glance, seen to be contradicting and controversial. The Cyprus Green Party still demands full transparency on this issue and is restive about information it is receiving concerning the eligibility of the tankers to actually transport water in the first place. Unfortunately there is a lack of information on this subject since the responsible authorities have not made public the identity of the tankers that have undertaken the transport of water from Greece.

The Cyprus Green Party considers that, under the circumstances, the application of this extraordinary measure was necessary, but is needs to be protected through transparency and capable administration.

Archangelos Avenue: Do not harm the trees

2008-07-17T08:56:00.003+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party condemns the Town Planning and Ministry of Communication plans for Archangelos Avenue, which include the cutting of 800 trees in order to widen it. The most disconcerting is the contemplation of the bodies in charge to cut 200 century-old cypresses.

We report that this project is taking place without a complete Environmental impact research concerning the environmental consequences it will cause and without the necessary public hearing.
We have long ago noted this issue to be discussed in the Parliamentary Environmental Committee, which unfortunately keeps delaying its debate. Also, there was a special meeting over this topic with the Minister of Transportation and Civil Works. Unfortunately, all of our attempts have been fruitless.
We consider it a governmental obligation to apply common principles of modern governance. A full research of the environmental consequences must be elaborated and public debate must be preceded. The rush shown by the bodies in charge is suspicious and condemnable. It expresses the usual authoritarianism of the bulldozer. It’s a shame. We expected a different approach from the government that promised a “fair society”.

Cyprus Greens going…up!

2008-07-07T17:41:00.001+03:00

According to the most recent gallop done by GPO AE company, published in “Haravgi” newspaper on June 12th, 2008, Cyprus Green Party enjoys the preference of a 3,4% of the Cypriot voters. This is a considerably very high percentage, having in mind the actual size of the party which was officially measured in the elections of May 2006 at 2% and of course the “dry” period without campaigning, candidates, etc.

For the Cyprus Green Party, this 3,4% is an important step towards its future plans, with the European elections coming next year and of course the main target of the party to gain a second seat in the Cyprus Parliament during the next national elections in 2011.

On the same gallop, Secretary General of the Cyprus Green Party, George Perdikis is, once again among the most popular political party leaders of the island. Perdikis has been given positive popularity votes by the 57,5% of the voters.

Environmental problems concern Cypriots
A few years ago, environmental matters were not among the items that Cypriot voters considered being important for their living. This seems to change after all the environmental and ecological problems people are facing every day. During this gallop, environmental problem was rated number 4 among 14 different problems stated by the voters. The main problems appeared in the list are:

Increased prices (34,3%)
Water deficiency (27,1%)
Drugs (6,8%)
Environment (5,1%)
Education (4,2%)
Unemployment (3,7%)
Finance – Social Security (3,2%) , etc.

The gallop was done during the period of 5 to 9 June on a national basis, covering cities and country side. Sample consisted by 1600 voters on a telephone interview basis.

THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KARPASIA PENINSULA HAS BEEN DESTROYED

2008-07-02T09:37:00.000+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party denounces the destruction of the forest and archaeological space in Saint Andronikos village on the Northern Cyprus, in the peninsula of Karpasia, occupied by the Turkish army since 1974.

According to journalistic information the “department” of forests of arrangement granted illegal authorisation in 36 scales of forest use, with the condition that that land be used for cultures.

However the businessman raised the area and proceeded in excavations in result to cause damages in ancient graves.

The Cyprus Green Party denounces the drawings of the occupied arrangement for destruction of virgin nature and ecotopes of the peninsula of Karpasia and asks from the Cyprus Government to proceed to the appropriate actions.

CANCER PATIENTS: THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD APPLY THE STRATEGIC PLAN FOR CANCER

2008-06-30T15:00:00.000+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party Member of Parliament Mr. George Perdikes met last Tuesday with the President of the House of Representatives Mr. Marios Karogian, as he was accompanying the President of the Patients and Friends’ NGO movement of the Nicosia General Hospital Oncology Department (EL.A-ZO).

Mr. Perdikes asked that the Parliament insist on last Thursday’s plenum decision, which requested that the government adopts and directly applies the strategic plan for fighting cancer, which has been on the table of the Ministerial Council since January 2008.
It’s truly criminal to have cancer patients being disregarded from the state and the government. It’s absolutely outrageous to have waiting lists for radiotherapy due to the lack of the necessary linear accelerators and the lack of maintenance of the state hospitals’ radiotherapy machines.
The government ought to assume its responsibilities, and it is the Parliament’s responsibility to insist on this.

Greens accuse government over golf courses

2008-06-23T13:41:00.000+03:00

THE GREEN Party yesterday accused the government of planning to bypass environmental and town-planning procedures for desalination units to ease the way for more golf courses in Cyprus.According to the party’s general secretary, George Perdikis, a bill submitted by the government to the House Environment Committee provided the cancellation of environmental studies and town-planning procedures for those interested in building desalination plants.But Perdikis said this was a back-handed way for the government to allow the operation of golf courses.“The government’s attempts to cancel all environmental and town-planning control over the creation of so-called small desalination units are scandalous,” said Perdikis. “The government is essentially offering natural resources to the capitals of private businessmen.“We say the control proceedings should be sped up and not cancelled.”Parliament has already told the government that this will lead to a huge environmental scandal, he explained.“Those whose applications for golf courses were rejected by the Exemptions Committee will, based on this bill, be able to go ahead and build them.”
(Cyprus Mail)

Say NO to the use of Lannate

2008-06-10T15:39:00.005+03:00

The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Demetris Christofias and Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Mr. Michalis Polynikis signing the petition against the use of Lannate.

The campaign by the Cyprus Green Party is still on and we would be greatfull if YOU fill the following petition form and send it back to us at greenparty@cytanet.com.cy or post it to:

Cyprus Green Party
P.O. Box 29682,
1722 Nicosia

NAME: .......................................................................

ADDRESS: ..................................................................

Tel. No: ..................................................................

and send it to email

COME AND ENJOY A MEAL COOKED WITH SOLAR ENERGY!

2008-06-04T15:33:00.002+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party’s Limassol District Committee is organising the following activities at Gregoris Auxentiou Square (Dioikitirio) to celebrate the World Environment Day:

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Display of the mechanism of solar furnaces

Andreas Fasoulides and Kyriakos Antoniou from the Techonology Workshop Re-New will present furnaces that operate with sunlight to bake food.

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m: Workshop with recycling material and children’s painting workshop. Sun will be the day's theme.

In the afternoon children of all ages will have the possibility to draw pictures inspired by the sun or to work together to create a recycling bin with recycled material!

Journalists are invited by the Limassol District Committee to lunch with them. At 12:00 p.m. we will serve “sun” roast chicken, potatoes and vegetables.

Intense concern on the developments on the Cyprus problem

2008-06-04T09:36:00.000+03:00

The political committee of Cyprus Green Party having studied the latest developments occurred from the meeting of President Christofias with Mr. Talat and their common announcement and having in mind the briefing of the party’s Secretary General, Mr. George Perdikis, expresses its intense concern for the future of the Cyprus issue.

The intense concern was created due to the inclusion of different terms and statements in the common announcement. These terms are considered very risky as we are certain that they will be used by the permanently deceitful Turkish side and the well known involved countries which are always supporting Turkey despite the honest willingness of President Christofias.

Besides all above, we consider that the non inclusion of statements concerning the important facts of the Cyprus problem, such as the settlers, properties, security and guarantees and focusing on every day matters, are creating a negative environment for the negotiations which cannot allow us to be optimistic.

The Cyprus Green Party calls President Christofias to continue the resistance to the unacceptable demands of Mr. Talat and to avoid direct negotiations before real progress is obtained by the committees and especially by the working groups. We also ask President Christofias to insist on the principles of the solution of the Cyprus problem as they have been expressed by him during the pre-election period.

In this difficult attempt, the Cyprus Green Party will stand and support President Christofias in an effort to obtain a just, right and viable solution for the Cyprus problem.

Informative campaign and signature raising against the construction of nuclear stations

2008-06-04T09:29:00.004+03:00

Recently, we had a great number of discussions regarding the construction of nuclear stations in Greece and Cyprus. One of the basic arguments presented, was that, since a lot of neighbor countries have announced their intension to built a nuclear stations, and since we will be in danger anyway, why not building one of our own? The absolute insanity! Should we put a bomb in our house, if our neighbor is willing to do so and we will have the consequences, anyway? Of course not. We shall try to obstruct him in every possible way. In this respect we ask for political initiatives on an International level to block the nuclear threat.

The International Network, Mediterranean No Nuclear Neighborhood-ΜΝ3, is organizing a campaign for raising signatures under an article which you can find on the following addresses: www.mn3network.org and www.manw.org. You can also find a form which you can print and raise signatures. On the form you can find the address to which you should send the forms.

The Greek effort is supported by the Mediterranean No Nuclear Neighborhood, the Greek office of Greenpeace, WWF (Hellas), SOS Mediterranean Network and the Greek network of Ecological Organizations (Pandoiko). In Cyprus, the campaign was undertaken by the Cyprus Green Party and the Ecological Movement.

We need your participation. We need your support. It’s the only certain way to avoid the construction and settlement of new nuclear stations.

NUCLEAR ENERGY IS NOT A SOLUTION. IT IS JUST ANOTHER PROBLEM!
Active citizens against radioactivity!
Sign NOW and promote this campaign…

Concerns on statements about creating a Nuclear Station in Cyprus

2008-06-02T11:17:00.000+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party expresses its great concerns for statements of the Director of the Energy Department of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, who expressed his positive opinion on the idea of constructing a nuclear factory in Cyprus.

Adopting nuclear reactors is a significant social decision, because possible dangers directly affect the population outside the country’s territories. Unfortunately, society and expert scientists more often than not have a limited say in such crucial decision-making processes, while the final word belongs to corporations and technocrats.

The biggest, unresolved issue of nuclear energy is the accumulation of nuclear waste from the reactors. The radioactivity released by thousands of tons of nuclear waste is exceedingly dangerous, has a vast durability over time and its handling is terribly expensive.
The Cyprus Green Party asks the Cyprus government to fully evaluate the effects of all factors and to be more than careful when dealing with such serious topics. Even minor announcements and statements can create unfortunate controversies, while at the same time they dynamite every action and attempt of preventing the construction of nuclear factories in Turkey’s southern coastline, which can endanger the entire region.

We need greater focus on solar power

2008-05-23T13:04:00.001+03:00

CYPRUS needs to make better use of solar power, according to Green party leader George Perdikis last night.Perdikis was speaking at an event organised at the House of Representatives in anticipation of the European Solar Power Day which is tomorrow, Friday.“Although Cyprus has done well to make use of its 300 days of sunshine per year in heating water for home use,” it has failed to use solar energy to produce electrical energy, Perdikis argued.He went on to say that his party has, “asked, on more than one occasion, for the development of a rounded social dialogue which will lead to fundamental changes in energy policy.” He thought that, “the recent introduction of a compulsory energy plan in building design was a positive step.“However, the matter of saving energy in the transport sector remains. Any change in this sector goes hand-in-hand with deep-rooted changes in transport policy,” he added.He also expressed his party’s line on EU energy policy aims.The EU partially describes its energy policy via its ‘20-20-20’ slogan: the aim is to reduce energy consumption by 20 per cent and increase renewable energy use by 20 per cent by the year 2020.Perdikis was negative about this, saying that it does not go far enough, while he was aware that others thought that it is unachievable.

(Cyprus Mail 2008)

Greens blast plans for nuclear plant in Turkey

2008-05-23T13:03:00.001+03:00

THE CYPRUS Green Party and the Commissioner for the Environment Charalambos Theopemtou are warning about the risks involved in the planned construction of five nuclear power stations and a nuclear technology centre in Turkey. The Greens are calling the state to intervene to prevent the operation of the nuclear plants, particularly at Akkuyu, which lies in a seismogenic area, as Cyprus would also be affected by a possible nuclear catastrophe.“The construction of a power plant at Akkuyu brings the nuclear nightmare to our doorstep,” said the Greens. “The exceptionally dangerous seismogenic area of southern Asia Minor, the problem of safety in the area, the lack of experience and expertise and more, make the plans for the construction of a nuclear power plant at Akkuyu the biggest threat to life and the safety of people in our area,” the statement continued.The Commissioner for the Environment Charalambos Theopemptou also pointed out the serious risks involved, including the lack of specialised personnel to staff the plants, the management of nuclear waste, the risk of leaks of nuclear waste, and the fact that the area where the plants will be built is seismogenic, which increases the risk of accidents.Theopemptou pointed out that plans for the construction of a nuclear technology centre were also alarming, as it could be used for the development of nuclear weapons. “It is well-known that countries with nuclear energy later get nuclear weapons with radioactive waste, particularly those countries with the type of plants Turkey is promoting. “The new trend is for low intensity nuclear weapons that destroy areas and not entire countries. So the decision to use them is easier! What will happen in our volatile oil-rich region with its chronic conflicts and guerrilla wars and the water shortage which could be a cause of war?” Theopemtou said.
(Cyprus Mail 2008)

Greens blast golf course ‘scandal’

2008-05-23T12:59:00.001+03:00

THE GREEN Party condemned the supply of water for the maintenance of golf courses, calling on the government to stop granting licences to create more greens.

The Green Party called a news conference to continue “exposing the big scandal of the golf courses”, adding that “the creation of golf courses was the excuse that cunning developers used, in order to purchase rural land for ridiculously cheap prices with the intention of converting it into building plots with the excuse that tourism would benefit.” Green Party Leader George Perdikis described the issue as an “economic scandal”. “We are against the creation of golf courses because they destroy the natural environment and scenery while wasting public resources of water for the maintenance of these golf courses.”Perdikis asked the government “to stop granting and approving licences for golf courses and halt the water supply in the existing golf courses”. The Greens are calling on the government to stop procedures for handing out new golf course building licences and to limit the water supplied to the existing courses and facilities. According to Green Party leader George Perdikis, a total of 14 golf courses are on the cards for the island.“Nothing will stop us from telling the truth, as we have been doing for the last 20 years concerning the golf courses. “All these constitute an economic scandal, which proves that the entire golf courses issue serves the interest of certain people, who make millions and billions, with the water and the land of the people and this country.” Perdikis said he considered it a “scandal and mockery for the public to suffer from water restrictions and a travesty for our farmers that see their plantations get destroyed because of lack of water while the developers take comfort in acquiring their licences and build villas which have already being sold.”The golf courses were built for the purpose of extending the tourist season. Numerous developers have profited at the expense of this tourism proposal, with hundreds of villas, estates and land already sold to foreign investors. However, tourism has not improved, the Greens point out. “This has already happened in three cases in Paphos, while a fourth course is under development.”Perdikis said: “The argument that supposedly some of these golf courses are irrigated by bore holes and that the water resources are not influenced is ridiculous… The claim that some of these golf courses are privately irrigated by private dams is also ridiculous.”

(Cyprus Mail 2008)

Ban Lanate and Stop Animal Poisonings in Cyprus

2008-05-15T13:42:00.001+03:00

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8555489146

Save a dog!!!

2008-05-13T16:03:00.000+03:00

20 pure breed dogs are given away - boxers, labradors, colleys, poodles, puppies of all ages, at the Aradippou shelter.

They will have to be put down in a week.

Tel. 99023462 - Toula

BI-COMMUNAL EVENT ORGANISED BY THE PEACE PLATFORM ON MAY1st 2008

2008-05-02T11:53:00.001+03:00

The Cyprus Green Party honour's the struggles of the working people over the years. We must remember that the rights of the working people enjoyed by us today are not to be taken for granted. Many people have lost their lives, for us to be able today to enjoy a better quality of life.
Rights are contested, earned and preserved with continuous fights and efforts. Like the workers in Chicago who gathered together to resolve the problems facing their lives and to organize their common struggle, so we should do the same today, following their example of unity, determination and dynamic fight.
The Cyprus Green Party together with other organizations and parties in Cyprus - Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot – honour's the sacrifice of those people who fought for the rights of the working people and sends the message that the struggle for freedom and justice can be supported once again from all of us, ordinary people, who care to achieve a better future and a better life.
Let us all be united, loving and strong for a better quality of life, for a better tomorrow, for a united home country.

Fruit bats at risk of extinction

2008-05-02T11:41:00.000+03:00

By Leo Leonidou

THE FRUIT BAT is under threat of extinction on the island, the Forestry Department said yesterday.Forestry Officer Harris Nicolaou told the Mail that numbers have been rapidly declining, with only an estimated 3,500 remaining.“We can say that numbers were far greater in the past and it is now an endangered species,” he said.“They are under threat from pesticides, hunters, farmers and general development, which forces them to try and set up other colonies elsewhere, which are less safe and suitable.”The fruit bat is mainly found in the Nicosia, Paphos and Limassol districts, with colonies ranging in size from 50 to 1,000.Bats are associated with superstition in other cultures, but in Cyprus they are considered more as pests that destroy crops.“That perception is actually wrong,” said Nicolaou. “The fruit bat, as its name suggests, eats fruit, which is not suitable for commercial sale or human consumption. It also actually protects crops by controlling numbers of the destructive Mediterranean fruit fly, which causes a great deal of damage.”The population of the once plentiful fruit bat has declined rapidly in the past century because of officially-sanctioned extermination programmes under British colonial rule before independence in 1960, which continued until 1993.Cyprus has 16 species of bat, and is the only EU country to have the Egyptian fruit bat. All bat species are strictly protected by both European and national legislation.The punishment for killing a bat on the island is a €17,000 fine and/or three years’ imprisonment.“People need to be educated about bats’ importance. If we lose the fruit bat, it would be a major loss,” stated Nicolaou.“If somebody has a problem, we urge them not to take the law into their own hands but to contact the Forestry Department for help.”Back in November, a protected colony of fruit bats was almost wiped out by unidentified gunmen using them for target practice, conservation groups and authorities said.Dozens of the mammals were killed in a shooting spree in the fenced-off Vretsia cave, next

Cyprus Mail 2008

Hypocrisy galore!

2008-04-26T09:18:00.007+03:00

By Linda Leblanc

As a local councillor in Peyia, and a Green Party member, I am amazed at the hypocrisy of the government’s water conservation campaign and its dismal failure to tackle the real problems. As the Planning Department and local authorities continue to rubber stamp massive unsustainable and unsuitable developments, we are expected to be good citizens and collect water in buckets in our showers, let our gardens die, not flush toilets, etc. I’ve had people tell me they will not open their swimming pools because of the water crisis.

Admirable, yes, of course. But isn’t it time that other sectors of our society started to show some community spirit? Instead of everyone behaving selfishly scrambling to buy every last water tank on the island, isn’t it time we started to think a bit more honestly and clearly on this?

It’s obvious that any possible water savings the people can provide are wiped out by the new golf courses, marinas and, a good example in my opinion, the new city development at Yeroskipou. I’ve been surprised with the naive solution that is so easily proposed – desalination. Do a little research and one will find out that this is not so simple and has serious financial and environmental consequences that all of us, as consumers, will have to bear.

In Peyia, water extraction from our precious underground reserves quadrupled from 1990 to 2001. Sustainable? There has been a small reduction since that time, mostly due to the tourist areas, since 2004, supplied from Asproskremnos Dam, restrictions on agriculture and because the Municipality was forced to stop pumping from several boreholes last year because of saltwater intrusion.

But the building spree continues unquestioned by those in government. A recent example in Peyia illustrates my point: the approval of a new 200-unit complex in Coral Bay, in a river bed, in an area that used to be zoned for single plots. It’s no surprise that the building zones were quietly changed a few years ago and have now resulted in changing the character of a well-established, low-density neighbourhood, all without any public discussion or notification. Sustainable?

At the same time, we are all being encouraged to save water and told that if we all work together there will be no water cuts in Peyia. Yet, on the first hot day this week, we had areas with no water. What will happen in a few weeks when we have more tourists (maybe!) and the temperatures climb?

Personally, almost a year ago, as a protest against this unsustainable building spree, I refused and continue to refuse to sign these applications being rubber stamped through the system. Some of these planning permits are actually being challenged in court by concerned residents. Unfortunately, I am always out-voted 8 to 1 by the Mayor and my fellow councillors who dismiss my proposal for a moratorium on new building while this mess is sorted out.

I think it is time for the people of Cyprus to hit the streets and demand accountability, transparency and immediate action. Our future is at stake as our groundwater is squandered by corrupt officials in the pockets of developers. Let’s demand a stop to this looting and polluting of our common resources. Sustainable development is a European requirement in planning. Isn’t it time we accept that there are natural limits to growth, especially in a semi-arid island like Cyprus?
Linda Leblanc
Peyia Municipal Councillor
http://www.cyprus-mail.com/news/main.php?id=38919&cat_id=8

‘Give buses priority’ in new transport system

2008-04-22T22:04:00.002+03:00

ANY new public transport system for Nicosia should give priority to buses as opposed to trams and shuttle trains.
This was the message from Nicosia Buses, who in particular criticised the possible introduction of a shuttle train along the Pedieos river as very expensive.
A shuttle train line from Lakatamia to the old Nicosia General Hospital would cost 200m euros, as much as it would cost to buy one thousand new buses," the announcement said. Asked by The Cyprus Weekly what prompted them to make the announcement, the Director General of Nicosia Buses, Costas Christodoulou, said that there have been various newspaper reports and public statements suggesting solutions to the traffic problem with which they did not agree.

Upgrading
"We are not against any other forms of public transport, but we firmly believe that it must start with the buses by upgrading both the vehicles as such and the services offered," he stressed.
To a remark what’s stopping Nicosia Buses from doing this by themselves, Christodoulou said that many things depended on the government setting out the technical specifications.
He recalled that the government had been working on public transport studies including the signing of what are called contract assignments with transport companies and added: "In the light of this, the Communications and Works Ministry of the new government has asked us not to make any new investments."

Aligning
In its announcement, the company noted that bus services could improve by aligning and increasing bus routes, running more hours and more frequently, introducing the park-and-ride system and providing electronic information to the public. Asked if the park-and-ride system could work since it would not help out-of-town commuters save any money now that petrol was so expensive and whether they should not consider running regional bus services instead, Christodoulou noted that, unfortunately, there were serious problems in doing this. "In the past we had suggested that all buses coming into town from each region should belong to a single transport company but we met with strong opposition from local interests," he explained.
As it is, there is almost one bus for every big village which takes the children to school in the town and back and perhaps runs an extra route during the day.
Urban traffic congestion is to great extent caused by thousands of people bringing their private cars into town from the regions for lack of effective public transport. Christodoulou noted that there was no government timetable to introduce much-needed improvements in public transport.
(Cyprus Weekly 22/4/08)

Greek and Turkish Cypriots join up to save the Cyprus donkey

2008-04-22T21:59:00.002+03:00

By Leo Leonidou

OVER 2,000 Greek and Turkish Cypriots have joined forces in order to protect a rare breed of feral donkey, once labelled by President Makarios as “the only true Cypriots on Cyprus”.

The animals could be under threat of extinction from reckless hunters, disgruntled farmers and drought, environmental activists have warned.
Using a Facebook group entitled ‘Save The Cyprus Donkey’, the people have come together after ten of the brown animals were found shot dead in Karpasia at the end of March.
They describe the donkey as the symbol of Cyprus and say that it is their responsibility to protect one of the world’s last wild colonies.
“The ones that belong to us are murdered by the ones who do not belong to us. If we stay silent, that makes us a part of this murder,” their message states.
A fortnight ago, members met at Monarga village from where they headed off to the Karpas peninsula’s ‘Golden Beach’ to commemorate the dead animals and discuss what to do.
“Hunters are shooting at them for fun, and farmers are killing them because they say they damage their crops,” the head of the Turkish Cypriot branch of the Green Action group, Dogan Sahir, told the Mail following the shootings.
“The enemy of nature is the enemy of humans,” read a banner unfurled by a small group of demonstrators at a sandy beach near Rizokarpaso village, that has for decades been a donkey sanctuary.
According to news agency Agence France Presse, a 20-year-old primary school employee who addressed the rally said the main suspects in the unsolved deaths were farmers angered by crop damage.
But fingers have also been pointed at hunters and developers eager to exploit the Karpas peninsula, one of the last unspoilt parts of the island.
Ironically, the Karpas donkey colony has been boosted by the 1974 Turkish invasion.
The vast majority of the area’s Greek Cypriot farmers fled south during the fighting, abandoning their animals.
And as agriculture declined amid the growing urbanisation, the ‘freed’ donkeys were replaced by tractors and pick-ups.
A 2003 study found that about 800 donkeys were roaming the olive orchards and wheat fields, and along the beaches of the relatively unspoilt Karpas landscape.
Sahir believes the number of the indigenous donkeys living there has been falling rapidly since the last census was carried out. The breed is believed to be unique because it has managed to survive unassisted by humans in the wild since escaping from its owners centuries ago.
“We cannot know how many are left, but we do know that many have been killed since the count,” Sahir said.
Commenting, a spokesman for the Veterinary Services described the shootings as “unacceptable”.
He called on various environmental groups to exert pressure on the authorities in order to protect the donkeys.
“It’s a real shame what’s happening,” he said, adding that the Services cannot intervene as they do not have any jurisdiction in the north.
Many years ago, the donkeys and mules of Cyprus were renowned throughout the Middle East for their size, strength and endurance.
They were also valuable to the island’s British colonial rulers during both world wars.
Cyprus donkeys were exported throughout the region for cross-breeding with horses to produce a mighty strain of mule.
According to the 1931 Handbook of Cyprus, “the Cyprus donkeys are of good quality being able to carry a load from 168 pounds (75 kilos) to 224 pounds and over.”

(Cyprus Mail 22/4/2008)

Water from Greece could flow as early as next month

2008-04-22T21:56:00.002+03:00

By Marianna Pissa

WATER transport from Greece can begin as soon as next month, the Chairman and CEO of Ocean Tankers Company, Michalis Ioannides, said yesterday at the ceremony for the signing of the contract between the company and the Water Development Department.

In statements following the ceremony of the contract signing, Agriculture Minister Michalis Polynikis hinted there may be a possibility of increasing the quantity of 8 million cubic metres of water that was agreed. "Our shortage is of 16 million cubic metres of water up to the end of year. The Greek government committed to grant us 8 million cubic metres. However, the prospect to increase the sum exists. This depends on the good will of the Greek government but also the needs that potentially come to the surface," Polynikis said.

Referring to the contract with Ocean Tankers, Polynikis declared that "we signed the contract that gives us the possibility of beginning the transport of the quantity of water that we agreed from Greece, the 8 million cubic metres, within the timeframe that we set, that is to say by June".

Asked if the government was also considering water transport from other neighbouring countries, the minister said: “he Ministry of Agriculture is determined to solve the water problem… All the possibilities are open to bring an end to the water problem."

Ioannides declared that the company would honour the contract and make every possible effort so that the water from Greece "is here on time". He added that, "provided the Port Authorities and the Water Development Department work together closely, there exists a possibility that the transport may begin in May”.

Regarding technical details for the procedure, Ioannides said that once the water reaches Limassol port, it will be transported via pipes to water-tanks in Yermasoyia and from there to the consumers without further treatment/processing, as the water which will be transported is potable.

"The tankers will transport 50,000 cubic metres of water daily and the entire procedure will last 160 days," he added, concluding that "the commitment based on the agreement is that the water transport will be completed by November".

(Cyprus Mail 22/4/2008)

Empty all swimming pools, first!

2008-04-22T15:15:00.001+03:00

By Philip Beardwood

Our biggest store of water seems to be swimming pools, so instead of paying to charter tankers to bring water from Greece, why don't we use our "road" tankers to empty all the pools, initially that are within an easy walk to the sea, and re process the water for domestic and agricultural use.
If anyone refills their pool, before any permitted date, the "Hong Kong Police" approach would be good, smash a hole in the side of the pool. They did it with truncheons for not having a road tax disk displayed on the windscreen of the car, but it seems to work well for other things too!!!

REAL MEASURES FOR CONFIDENCE CONSTRUCTION

2008-04-17T11:25:00.000+03:00

The Turkish Cypriot politician Albay Durduran presented yesterday in the meeting of Cypriot parties at the Ledra Palace a frame of eight proposals of real measures for the creation of confidence. The measures were agreed at the last meeting of the Secretary General of the Cyprus Green Party Mr. George Perdikes and the Secretary General of the Tourkish Cypriot Party “New Cyprus” Mr. Murat Kanatli at 31st March 2008.

The measures are:
1) Demilitarisation of within the walled Nicosia immediately, the entire Nicosia as soon as possible.

2) To stop the entry of new weapons to the island and enable its active control.

3) The distancing of military forces (de confrontation) in the buffer zone from each other, as a main aim pulling the forces in the north at a distance equivalent to the forces in the south.

4) Demilitarisation of Varosha immediately and its allocation to housing the legitimated owners.

5) Making necessary arrangements so that Maronites return their prior to 1974 settlements and demilitarisation of these settlements.

6) Initiation of the required operations to dissolve the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot Armies.

7) Making an agenda for withdrawal of the foreign armed forces and immediately starting the necessary work for its implementation.

8) Immediate opening of all crossing points (like Lefka, Famagusta Gate (Nicosia), Athienou) especially those of Tylliria area.

Mr. Perdikes suggested the adoption of Durdurans proposals and their submission to the two leaders and the technical committees. Unfortunately the meeting did not lead to the unanimous support of the eight proposals that Mr. Durduran presented.

Animal lovers celebrate Lannate ban

2008-04-17T11:06:00.005+03:00

By Paul Wood 08.APR.08

Animal rights campaigners are celebrating the news that the deadly Lannate poison will cease to be sold in Cyprus from early next year. EU lawmakers have decided that Lannate must be taken off shop shelves by March 2009.

The deadly substance, which is freely available in Cyprus, has been responsible for the deaths of thousands of domestic pets and wild animals over the past few years.
Lannate poison was introduced to American farmers in 1970 and was quickly exported worldwide due to the fact that it had a "90% kill rate" (compared with 50% to DDT).
It quickly became a restricted chemical in most parts of the world because of its high oral toxicity. Most animals that lick or eat food tainted with the drug die an agonizing death which can last from a few minutes up to five hours.
Last month a man in Trinidad killed his son by giving him a drink laced with Lannate. Local media wrote that the victim suffered "a death too painful to describe".
From “Famagusta Gazette” 2008

Five Myths About Plastic Bags

2008-04-15T14:15:00.003+03:00

By Anna Shepard
When I posted about my disappointment with Alastair Darling’s plans for a plastic bag tax, all sorts of responses came in arguing that this was an excuse to introduce a tax; that plastic bags should be celebrated for their lightweight durability and that they are a necessary part of modern life.

I’m afraid I don’t agree.It’s easy to recycle themThat’s rubbish. Rarely collected by local authority kerbside collections (tell me if yours does, I’d love to know what it does with them), your best chance is to find a supermarket with a recycling bank for bags. But this is far from ideal. The UK lacks its own developed plastic recycling facilities so, like most of Europe, sends the majority of its plastics to China to be recycled over there, an arrangement which lead to a BBC Real Story scandal two years ago. It uncovered our plastic being piled into Chinese landfill rather than being recycled. The problem with the plastic used in bags is that it is low quality: cheap to make from new, but tricky and energy intensive to recycle. Look at most plastic items and you’ll see a triangle containing a number; the higher that number the harder the product is to recycle. PET, numbered one, is the best sort for recycling. Decent carrier bags are numbered four. The more lightweight variety can be as high as seven. For more info on these codes, see here. They only take up a tiny proportion of landfillTaking up landfill space has never been one of the main accusations levelled at plastic bags. That they are made from a non-renewable resource, yes. That each of us in the UK uses an average of 290 of them every year, definitely. Not to mention the impact they are having on the natural world - see here. But taking up landfill space is only a small concern. In fact, it is worrying itself that only an estimated third of the bags we use end up in landfill when we are getting through so many - 145 billion last time I looked here. Where are they if they’re not in landfill? As they can’t all be in your special plastic bag holder. Many seem to find their way to the sea. There has been debate recently about the extent to which plastic bags cause marine deaths. The plastic industry points out that many of the numbers quoted are based on estimates with little scientific support. What has clearly emerged from this debate is that plastic bags are only one kind of plastic that threatens animals, and probably not the worst. Damage done by solid lumps of plastic is even more serious. Reports suggest that many birds can die because they ingest enough small lumps of plastic that their stomachs are filled with nothing else and they starve to death.
They don’t take long to breakdown The fact is that no one knows precisely how long a plastic bag takes to disappear without digging one up every decade to see how it’s getting on. Few scientists have given a figure of less than 100 years; most estimate between 200 and 1,000 years, depending on whether the bag finds itself buried in a light and air deprived landfill site or up a tree, where sunlight will help to break it down.

A few weeks ago, the Association of Plastic Manufacturers at the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, claimed that: "They decompose within one and a half to two years because of ultravioletsunlight." I would love to know where that figure came from. They require less energy to manufacture than paper bagsIn part this is true, but paper bags are not the only alternative to plastic bags, and while they require more energy, they also come from a renewable resource. Paper bags made from fibres from sustainably managed forests, or even better, recycled paper are environmentally superior to an oil based product.

It takes 430,000 gallons of oil to produce 100 million plastic bags, according to Worldwatch Institute. In short, paper may consume more resources to produce, but it is more recyclable than plastic, breaks down more easily and does not come from oil, a resource that we should be decreasing our reliance upon.They are durable and reusable True, it has been claimed by the plastic industry that a bag can be used 15 times to carry shopping before it falls apart. This is the theory, but how many of us do this? They have become a one-use disposable item because we know the shop will hand out more for free, next time we go. The ten billion bags handed out to British shoppers are used for an average of 12 minutes before they are discarded. A material bag that you paid for is more likely to accompany you to the shops countless times. In the wake of I’m Not a Plastic Bag fever, scores of bags have followed, made from every imaginable material – from jute, hemp and bamboo to corn starch, string, recycled paper and even banana leaves.
Yes, there is an energy cost in the production of these, but the idea is that this is negated if you use them enough times. And of course, the habit of using something time and time again - whether this is a bag, a cloth in the kitchen or an item of clothing - is simply good environmental practice.
TIMESONLINE

"Artist" starves a dog to death as a work of art

2008-04-12T19:02:00.000+03:00

An "artist" from Costa Rica - Guillermo Habacuc Vargas - as an installation piece took a dog from the street and caused it to suffer and starve to death in the name of Art.

It looked like this (click on link and scroll down):
http://elperritovive.blogspot.com/

While I do not believe in censorship, I do believe that a line must be drawn when it involves taking an unwilling model and using them against their wishes. Maybe it is not very humane of me, but I strongly believe that people who use and abuse animals, or people for that matter, for any reason, deserve to have the same thing happen to them. It may be an old cliché that many artists suffer in various ways for their work, but causing another being to suffer is another story.

I did not compose the following letter. I believe it was composed by a British artist. I am reposting it and encourage you to examine it and do something about it. Read on, as more information follows the letter.

EXHIBITION IS TAKING PLACE AT:

info@madc.ac.cr

Centro Nacional de la Cultura
Antigua Fábrica Nacional de Licores.
Avenida 3, calle 15/17. San José, Costa Rica.
Teléfono: (506) 257 7202 / 257 9370
Fax: (506) 257 8702

SAMPLE LETTER TO SEND THE GALLERY:

I am writing regarding the horrifying actions of Guillermo Habacuc Vargas, who paid local children to catch a dog on the street and then confined, starved and publicly displayed the dog as an "art" exhibit until the innocent animal died of starvation.

I, along with many people worldwide, am outraged that Guillermo Habacuc Vargas has been selected to represent Costa Rica in "Bienal Centroamericana Honduras 2008.” This man is by no definition of the word an artist. He is a criminally insane sadist and enjoys inflicting prolonged suffering upon his innocent victims. He is a danger to all of society, as it is well-documented that those with the capacity to intentionally cause harm to an animal have the same capacity to harm humans. To state that this animal would have died eventually of natural causes is unjustifiable and defies logical, rational thought.

To allow Guillermo Habacuc Vargas to represent Costa Rica in Bienal Centroamericana Honduras 2008 will in no way benefit Costa Rica. The world is watching, and the actions of this so-called artist have brought many negative assumptions as to the humanity of the people of Costa Rica. The fact that many witnesses of this animal’s suffering did nothing, and that the organizers of this event allowed this to happen, rather than taking action to see that Guillermo Vargas be criminally charged with animal abuse, is sending the world a message that Costa Rica is a cruel, uncivilized society that has no regard for life, but enjoys viewing and contributing to the loss of life.

Each and every person who knew of and witnessed the suffering of this innocent dog is guilty of causing its unnecessary death. To let this crime go unpunished, and instead to reward Guillermo Vargas by choosing him to represent Costa Rica in Bienal Centroamericana Honduras 2008 is unacceptable and shameful, not only to Costa Rica but to all participants in this event.

I urge you, do not condone the heinous actions of Guillermo Vargas by allowing him to participation in Bienal Centroamericana Honduras 2008. He should be jailed and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law for this animal’s death, and should not be allowed to represent Costa Rica as an artist, for to refer to him as such is an insult to all true artists.

Sincerely,

Your Name

ANOTHER GALLERY SHOWING HIS WORK:
This is the email address to a gallery which currently holds some of Vargas' work for display and sale. If anyone would like to ask the gallery to drop him from their list of artists the email address is below.

Email address: info@jacobkarpio-galeria.com

INFORMATION ABOUT EXHIBIT
What he says on his blog (translated):

I knew the dog died on the following day from lack of food. During the inauguration, I knew that the dog was persecuted in the evening between the houses of aluminum and cardboard in a district of Managua. 5 children who helped to capture the dog received 10 bonds of córdobas for their assistance. During the exhibition some people requested the freedom of the small dog, which the artist refused. The name of the dog was Natividad, and I let him die of hunger in the sight of everyone, as if the death of a poor dog was a shameless media show in which nobody does anything but to applaud or to watch disturbed. In the place that the dog was exposed remain a metal cable and a cord. The dog was extremely ill and did not want to eat, so in natural surroundings it would have died anyway; thus they are all poor dogs: sooner or later they die or are killed.

VIEW AND SIGN THIS PETITION: http://www.petitiononline.com/13031953/petition.html

HERE IS HIS MYSPACE PAGE (Guillermo Habacuc Vargas): http://www.myspace.com/casitadetentaciones

STOP THE USE OF LANATE NOW!

2008-04-11T15:12:00.000+03:00

The House of Representatives may have failed to vote in the first time and has been endlessly postponing the discussion of the subject the second time the Green’s draft bill of law for banning products that contain methomyl was submitted, but the European Commission’s decision No 670/2007 justifies their concerns and efforts.

The European Commission on the 19th of September 2007 decided to not register the substance methomyl in appendix 1 of the 91/414/ΕEC Directive of the Council and the recall of the previous approvals for phytoprotection products that contain it.
In its decision (2007/628/ΕΚ) it mentions that during the evaluation of this potent substance many reasons for concern surfaced. In particular, based on available information, the exposure of the user exceeded the ΑOEL (Acceptable Operator Exposure Level) standards and has not proven to be acceptable. Furthermore, concerning eco-toxicology, there are concerns due to the high danger that birds, mammals, water organisms, bees and not targeted creatures face.

It is also mentioned that:
· The authorisations of phytoprotection products that contain methomyl are to be recalled by the 19th of March 2008.
· From the date of the publication of this decision no authorisations are to be issued or renewed for such products.
· Any potential grace period offered by the member-states according to article 4, paragraph 6 or the Directive 91/414/EEC should be as short as possible and expire the latest by the 19th of March 2009.

Today lanate, as well as all the chemical concoctions used in agriculture are sold to anybody that asks for them, resulting in their use to poison animals but also people (we have had suicide cases in Cyprus), or for any other malign or ill use other than its specifications. The legal banning of lanate and the legal regulation of the distribution of these products should have been dealt with a long time ago.
Originally in 2004 George Perdikes, the Green Party’s MP had submitted a draft bill of law to this aim, called “For the Protection of Domestic Animals Law (poisons)” that outlawed the use of products containing methomyl, commonly called lanate, but it was voted out by all the other political parties. When he was re-elected in 2006 he resubmitted the draft bill and it has been pending ever since. Hundreds of citizens have supported our efforts with their signature.
With recent developments the Cyprus Green Party announces today (four years after the first failed attempt to vote the legislation into the House of Representatives) to withdraw its draft bill stating their disappointment because four years of avoiding the poisoning of animals (mainly dogs and birds) by lanate have been lost, as well as preventing health disorders of its users.
We ask that pesticides that contain methomyl are immediately withdrawn from the market.
4 years have been lost with the responsibility of the other political parties, let’s not loose another year with the excuse of exhausting merchants stock of such products.
This substance has been proven highly toxic and its use should be halted immediately!

Easter bonfire tree felling incenses Cyprus greens

2008-04-04T14:51:00.003+03:00

NICOSIA (Reuters Life!)
Cyprus conservationists are on the warpath over the felling of protected trees used in bonfires to celebrate the sentencing of Judas Iscariot to eternal damnation as part of Easter celebrations.
Hundreds of trees face the chop for the pyre in an age-old tradition symbolising the burning of Judas, the wayward disciple Christians believe betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Judas is represented by a stuffed dummy on the top of the pile, known in the Cypriot dialect as a "lambrajia".
Bonfires used to be held in church courtyards. But the tradition has evolved into one big all-night rave in some cases replete with barbeques and beer and, if in a residential area, an army of angry neighbours.
"It mostly involves young people, who compete with each other on who will have the bigger bonfire," said Ioanna Panayiotou, spokeswoman for the Cyprus Greens Party.
The party recently got word of eucalyptus trees being felled, and of trees disappearing in a park, she said.
Greek Cypriots, who in their majority are members of the Orthodox Church, celebrate Easter, which is the most important day in their religious calendar, on April 27.

Stop the war march

2008-03-27T15:29:00.001+02:00

Around 200 activists of all ages, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and members of migrants’ communities in Cyprus, marched on Saturday 22/3 to US Embassy.
The call for demo initiated by Stop the War Coalition-Cy was made by various Greek Cypriots organisations and Turkish Cypriots trade unions and groups to coincide with the 5th anniversary of the invasion in Iraq. The only parliamentary party which took part in the Stop the War Coalition – Cy was the Cyprus Green Party. The Secretary General of the Cyprus Greens Mr. George Perdikes was in the front of the march. The Cypriot media made a specific comment about the presence of the Cyprus Green Party.
Speaking to the crowd, Green Party leader George Perdikis, referring to the protest over wars in Iraq and the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, said: “These kinds of situation show the growth of common events organised by Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and can create a progressing climate for reunification of the island.”
A joint statement from the different groups said in the five years since the US invaded and occupied Iraq, the world had become a more dangerous place. “Iraq has been torn apart with a million dead and four million displaced,” said the statement.
It also said the hidden war in Afghanistan has killed tens of thousands and the turmoil as a result of the so-called war on terror had also destabilised Pakistan. The US setting its sights on war with Iran was another factor causing global instability as was the US permission to Turkey to invade northern Iraq.
It also mentioned US support for Israel “the US guard dog in the Middle East” to bomb Lebanon, the situation in Somalia, Kenya and the Balkans.
“The recent attack by the Israeli army in Gaza has cost the lives of 150 Palestinians, many of whom were women and children.”
The statement also criticised previous Cypriot governments for offering facilities to the US military operations in the region.
The combative demonstrators when they arrived outside the fortress-like building of the USA Embassy ringed with barbed wire, despite the presence of riot police, chanted in Greek and in Turkish “Butcher Bush out of Bagdad”, “Viva-Viva-Viva Palestina”, “British bases out of Cyprus”, etc.
The anti-war demo in Nicosia, despite the fact that all mainstream political parties were absent and the poor media coverage put Cyprus once again in the map of the international antiwar protest.

WORKING COMMITTEES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

2008-03-27T15:27:00.000+02:00

The Cyprus Green Party asks that, within the framework of the application of the 8th of July Agreement, urgent environmental issues in the occupied areas are also dealt with through the creation of environmental working committees.

The Secretary General of the Cyprus Green Party Mr. George Perdikes sent an urgent letter to the President of the Republic Mr. Demetris Christofias, suggesting the inclusion of the environmental aspect to the procedures for the application of the 8th of July Agreement. “Cyprus, as an island, is a unified ecosystem and needs to be treated as such” wrote Mr. Perdíkes.
Mr. Perdikes suggests that experts concretely discuss the need for measures that will enable for the joint administration of Cyprus’s natural resources and natural environment.
Parallel to this, the Greens are also calling that the working committees confront urgent environmental problems in the occupied areas, such as the pollution of the Kseros Bay, the quarry works in Pentadaktylos mountain range, the lack of protection of NATURA 2000 areas, the development schemes for the Karpasia area, the management of liquid and solid waste, the illegal building of holiday residences etc.
Finally, Mr. Perdikes asks to include in the discussions the demolishment of the gigantic flag and slogan that is polluting the mountain slope of Pentadaktylos.

ILLEGAL AND PROVOCATIVE VISIT BY BÜYUKANIT

2008-03-27T15:25:00.000+02:00

The Cyprus Green Party condemns today’s illegal visit of the Chief of the Turkish General Staff General Büyükanıt in occupied Cyprus.

The visit of the Turkish General is connected to the latest developments concerning the Cyprus problem. It is obvious that Talat, by inviting the Chief of the military power structure of Turkey, wishes to deal with the reactions of Ankara against the enforcement of the 8th of July agreement, as agreed upon at the latest meeting with president Christofias.
Today’s visit of Büyükanıt to Cyprus reminds us of the 40 thousand heavily armed Turkish soldiers on our island and reveals the true dimension of things. Unfortunately the real negotiator before president Christofias is not Mehmet Ali Talat but the Turkish generals.

Springtime in Cyprus?

2008-03-27T11:05:00.000+02:00

The Cyprus Green Party expresses its contained optimism for the result of today’s meeting between president Christofias and the Turkish Cypriot leader Talat. The commitment form both sides to immediately implement the 8th of July agreement is a positive outcome. The establishment of a timeline for the commencement of the technical committees and working groups meetings also creates optimism.

But the initiation of negotiations among the two leaders in three months, irrespective of the progress of the committees work and before trust measures bear fruit, is an ambivalent outcome of this meeting.

The 8th of July Agreement could possibly be mutilated and artfully overturned. There is a danger of a three month prolongation of the current impasse, until Turkey´s demand for direct negotiations is granted. Besides, the opening of the Ledra barricade without the general demilitarisation of the walled area of Nicosia cannot satisfy the Cyprus Green Party. Neither can the fact that there is no commitment to open the barricade in the secluded Tulliria area.
In conclusion, without judging the outcome to be negative, we do not find it satisfactory. A lot more needs to be done and a lot of caution must be taken. We support the president of the Republic of Cyprus Mr. Demetris Christofias in this effort.

Macrobiotic lunch

2008-03-19T14:38:00.000+02:00

Dear Friends,

We would like to remind you about coming Friday. Our lunch offer will be a selection of vegetarian macrobiotic delicatessens. Some examples: vegetable sushi, vegetable wock, azuki kante, salads, sea weed, pickles, miso soup and dessert. We will be partly demonstrating and explaining the preparation of the dishes.
The ingredients are coming all the way from Japan and they are available at ZITRONE. We want to stress that we offer ingredients that are grown and prepared the traditional way by small family business in Japan. Our hatcho miso for instance has a fermentation period of 24 months and it is organic.

Tomorrow (Thursday) our lunch offer will be spinach risotto with salad.
We alos have a great variety of fresh vegetables.

Love & Health
Antonis & Christothea

ZITRONE Natural Life
Agiou Andreou str. 365,
3035 Limassol
Tel. 00357 25820339
Fax 00357 25820338
www.cyprusspirit.com/zitrone

The opening of Ledra’s checkpoint to be included in an agreement for the demilitarisation of Nicosia

2008-03-03T14:56:00.003+02:00

The Cyprus Green Party supports the opening of Ledra street checkpoint together with the parallel opening of Tylliria and Mesaoria checkpoints.

We believe that the opening of Ledra’s checkpoint should be considered as part of a general plan of demilitarisation of the areas within the Venetian Walls.
The Cyprus Green Party and Turkish Cypriot Party “New Cyprus” had the initiative to promote a proposal for complete demilitarisation of Nicosia, back in 2007. Their common declaration was widely accepted both in Cyprus and abroad.

The proposal for demilitarisation of old Nicosia was officially endorsed by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, United Nations, the Ambassadors of the five permanent member countries of Security Council and all political parties of Cyprus. During its recent congress, the European Green Party approved a resolution demanding the demilitarisation of Nicosia.
We believe that it’s a realistic target that will lead to the reunion of the divided city.
The demilitarisation of Nicosia will also lead to an end the occupation factors and will promote the re-establishment and the re-settlement of Greek and Turkish Cypriots in the centre of Nicosia.

The opening of Ledra’s checkpoint should soon lead to the complete demilitarisation of Nicosia and to become the start of the demilitarisation of the whole island with the withdrawal of all foreign army forces from Cyprus.

Re appointment of the Commisioner for the Environment

2008-03-01T10:51:00.002+02:00

The newly elected President of the Republic of Cyprus reappointed yesterday Mr. Charalambos Theopemptou to the possition of the Commisioner for the Environment.

Mr. Demetris Christofias announced the appointment of Mr. Theopemptou together with the announcement of the new members of the Cabinet.

Cyprus Green Party expresses its satisfaction and wishes to Mr. Theopemptou every success and to continue his valuable mission.

INTERNATIONAL WATER BIOTOPES PROTECTION DAY

2008-02-01T09:51:00.000+02:00

The 2nd of February of each year is dedicated to the Water Biotopes Protection.
On this day, back in 1971, the Convention of the Protection of Water Biotopes was signed, in Ramsar, a Persian city on the coasts of the Caspian Sea. The International Water Biotopes Day was celebrated for the first time in 1977, making thus an encouraging start.

This year’s celebrations motto is “Healthy Wetlands, Healthy People”.
The Cyprus Green Party, honouring the International Water Biotopes Day, organises a protest against the construction of a petrol station in the area of Oroklini Lake demanding at the same time the inclusion of the Lake in the protected area’s list, on Sunday February the 3rd, at 12:30 p.m.
The protest is aiming to send the message that the important biotopes of Cyprus, as the lake of Oroklini, constitute a national, ecological wealth and a precious heritage, and their protection constitutes an imperative need. We, the Cyprus Green Party, call the authorities to proceed to all necessary actions for the protection of the Lake and its inclusion in the European protected regions list.

We cannot, of course, forget the case of Akrotiri water biotope which has been included in the protected regions of the Ramsar Treaty, but unfortunately the antenna’s area is not included in the protected area. The Cyprus Government’s proposal was to include in the RamsarTreaty the entire area.
The British antennas are located at the western side of the Salt Lake, in a sensitive territory of the biotope’s system. This territory offers the hydrologic connection between the fresh water marsh from the Akrotiri Salt Lake.

Cyprus Green Party believes that resident’s health and the quality of their lives, as well as the protection of the entire area of the water biotope, will be established with the removal of the antennas and the abolition of the British Bases with all the catastrophic results of their action in the island.

Animal shelter faces closure

2008-01-16T15:28:00.000+02:00

THE SHELTER of the Cyprus Society for "The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals" has announced that it will be closing on January 20.There are still 37 dogs and 23 cats remaining in the shelter, which has appealed to animal lovers to assist by adopting one of the animals, which they say are all healthy and good natured.According to a press release, the society will continue and intensify its campaign for the humane treatment of animals. Also, it will continue and strengthen its programme for the spaying of pets. “We consider that in this way we will be contributing more effectively to the protection of all animals,” the statement said.
The Green Party issued a statement condemning the recent dog poisonings by “unscrupulous criminals in Strovolos and Arakapas with vehemence. We call upon dog owners across the island to be alert and careful, especially during this period where dogs are restless and to not let them wonder around unaccompanied. “These criminals lay in wait to poison dogs with tainted bait. Dogs are easily attracted and face mortal danger. The Cyprus Green Party calls upon all local authorities to be alert and on the police to take precautionary measures in order to identify suspicious movements.”

Picturesque Polis Chrysochous

2008-01-08T11:21:00.000+02:00

Yesterday evening I went for a drink on the square in Polis Chrysochous and came across another victim of the poisoning that is going on in this little town for months now.
Many locals have lost their dogs or where just in time to save them by rushing to the vet.
Almost all cats have disappeared (I was thinking of releasing 1000 mice so that people might start to understand their function in society...).
Do you have any suggestions what we can do about it?
If not, you may use this photograph in your efforts to ban the use of Lanate in Cyprus.

I wish you all the best for the coming elections. Unfortunately I cannot vote, otherwise you would have my support for sure.

Kind Regards,

Grietje Goedkoop
Polis Chrysochous

Foundations on unstable ground

2008-01-07T12:27:00.000+02:00

Houses – moving due to expanding clay

By Vasos Vassiliou

Hundreds of houses in Cyprus are built on ‘sensitive’ geological areas, resulting in the need for frequent repairs, valuing thousands of pounds, or else these houses would have been dangerous to live in. The owners of these houses, which were built on clay ground, pay cumulatively tens of thousands of pounds patching up cracks on the walls, repairing broken tiles and appliances etc and not ever achieving a permanent restoration. Pentonite or clay is a soil type, which is abundant in Cyprus.

In the past, as geologist and ex-director of the Geological Department Mr. George Petrides told us, there was ignorance on the impacts of pentonite (during the preparation of the structural design). However, even today the problem has not vanished because houses continue to be built on pentonite without proper design. It becomes apparent that some housing developers do not seem to care much about future damages due to the ground characteristics.

Lately, buyers of houses, mostly foreigners, who bought houses built on expanding soils, very soon after they bought the houses noticed the appearance of cracks. They complained strongly and asked for solutions from the developers, but their problem was not solved. Some of them decided to take their cases to court.

A typical case is that of a woman from Britain who bought a house in a village in Paphos and when she returned from England in September, where she went for her vacations, discovered that the swimming pool of the house …..has moved.

However there is a correct way of constructing houses on pentonite, using the method of piles and deep foundations. With regards to existing houses, as Mr. Petrides explained, it is possible to stabilize the pentonite by mixing it with lime. After the mixing of the two soils these should then be compacted. However for the introduction of lime under an existing houses, test boreholes must first be drilled.

Regions of dangerous soils
District of Paphos
In these areas there is pure pentonite covering in total a surface area of a few square kilometres.
• Kathikas
• Pentalia
• Galataria
• Kelokedara
• Kidasi

District of Limassol
Expanding soils, with areas of pure pentonite are located in the district between Moni and Pentakomo

District of Nicosia
• Pallouriotisssa
• Kaimakli
• Area of Paedagogical Academy
In the above areas there is scattered pentonite

District of Famagusta
Expanding solis have been located around the Paralimni Lake

Mamouth damages
Damages caused internationally due to expanding soils are greater than those caused by earthquakes.

Expanding soils is the issue of a seminar, which will take place tomorrow Saturday during which experts, including university professors will explain their views.

What is clay
It is a soil material, which normally develops from the deposits of fine materials in water. These materials are a product of erosion of different rocks. Clay is a very plastic material and in the presence of water it becomes pliable and may keep any shape given to it. When dry it contracts and becomes harder and expands and softens again when wet. This process may be repeated continuously.

The island of pentonite
Cyprus is included in the countries with the largest (based on its surface area) presence of pentonite and clay soils in general. In the case of Cyprus, the soils are igneous and have an age of tens of millions of years, ie since the times the island rose from the sea.

Landslides and sensitive soils
Damages are caused in constructions (er. cracks) due to landslides which have been observed in 11 communities in Paphos. The Department of Geological Surveys has in the past located problematic soils. The department prepared geological studies and maps for each village separately and identified these problematic areas. These geological studies were sent to the Director of the Town Planning Department as well as the District Officer of Paphos. The common characteristic of the four villages is the identification of clay of the type ‘kannaviou’ or ‘malange’ of Mamonia. These soils present phenomena of expansion and contraction when their water content changes. Also landslides occur when the ground is inclined. According to a member of the Geological Department these soils are very vulnerable to instabilities especially under earthquakes or after heavy rainfalls. He added however that there are techniques to face these problems and this is the reason why it is not correct to forbid building development in these areas by proclaiming them as ‘White zones’.

Phileleftheros Newspaper
3/11/07

Did you really have to kill my dog?

2007-12-28T14:49:00.000+02:00

An emotional and serious article - message by a dog owner in Cyprus Mail:

“She was my little, happy sister and all she wanted to do was spread joy! I feel blessed to know her and wish I could make it better for you both.”“What can one say to comfort you – we can not stop thinking about what you are going through. How wicked some people are. Our hearts and love go out to you.”“She only wanted to give joy to people”“She was full of joy and was the village character’“She always took the letters from me”All the above quotes are about my beloved Ellie who was cruelly poisoned on December 18 in our own garden – one minute a fit young joyous dog, a few minutes later found foaming at the mouth: another victim of Lanate deliberately given in her own garden.Ellie was full of life and a joy to everyone who met her. Boisterous, lively, wanting to help with everything and without a cruel bone in her body. Her life was short. I found this shivering scrap of a six-week-old puppy crying under the post boxes in the village. Riddled with fleas and ticks, she trustingly came to me – a black and white scrap of bones. She was so sick with malnutrition and pneumonia, the vet didn’t think she would live. With lots of TLC and the expertise of the vet, we found ourselves with a beautiful Cypriot hunting dog that no one wanted. What a joy she brought to our hearts – and with a heart as big as her long hind legs. No other dog had it made like her four paws had she found a loving home. She was always carrying something in her mouth and longed to help with everything – that was my Ellie. She had her own stuffed elephant which we called Ellie 2 as she loved to carry it everywhere with her. She would curl up on the couch with me and was a dog who thought she was human that was my beloved Ellie. Now our hearts are broken at Christmas because someone poisoned her with Lanate in our own garden. The tears anger, blame and hate are working through but nothing can replace my friend, with her joy of life and joy that she gave to everyone that met her.Christmas in our family hasn’t been joyful for us as we lost a baby over this period. As we have no children our dogs have been our family. I now feel I have lost another baby and my heart is broken.It is about time Lanate was banned and the sale of it forbidden totally.
A heart-broken dog owner

Study finds hours being wasted in traffic

2007-12-28T14:43:00.000+02:00

PUBLIC WORKS delays in major towns means commuters are being forced to sit in traffic much longer and to cover more mileage than necessary.

According to an article in yesterday’s Phileleftheros, traffic congestion is costing towns £25 million on an annual basis, which will only worsen if works are not carried out to help alleviate the heavy vehicular flow.
Drivers are forced to travel longer distances and to go through town centres due to the lack of ring roads. This not only wastes energy and burdens the environment but also forces commuters to spend thousands of productive hours behind the wheel.
According to Public Works department data dating back to 2005, the total distance travelled in three central urban areas (Nicosia, Limassol and Paphos) is over six million car kilometres. Specifically three million kilometres in Nicosia, 2.7 kilometres in Limassol and 540,000 kilometres in Paphos, the local daily said.
As for actual time spent on roads in car hours per day, drivers were spending thousands of wasted hours. Specifically 130,000 drivers in Nicosia, 90,000 in Limassol and 20,000 in Paphos.
Nicosia would benefit greatly from two ring roads that would connect the east and West sides of the city. The projects, included in the Local Plan for Nicosia, are expected to greatly benefit drivers and passengers by reducing travel time, saving fuel and reducing car operation costs.
From the construction of a ring road in the north and south side of the capital 150,000 car hours in travel time will be reduced, equating to £15 million in productivity time.
A further £1 million will be saved in the reduction of movement by 35,000 kilometres, and travel times between east and west Nicosia will be reduced by 35 to 50 per cent, the paper said.

(Cyprus Mail)

Cypriots among EU’s top waste producers

2007-12-28T14:40:00.000+02:00

PER capita production of urban solid waste in Cyprus reached 741kg and is one of the highest in Europe, the statistics service said yesterday.Overall, Cyprus produced 571,000 tonnes of solid wasted last year – a 3.2 per cent increase compared with 2005.Around 87 per cent ended up in landfills while the rest was collected for recycling.
Cypriots produced 741 kilograms of urban waste each, one of the highest in Europe where the annual average is 517 kilograms per resident.Cyprus was up there with Ireland, 815 kilograms, Denmark, 737 kilograms and Luxemburg, 702 kilograms.

(Cyprus Mail 2007)

Cypriots urged to switch to euro early

2007-12-27T11:29:00.000+02:00

Cypriots are being urged to hand in Cyprus pounds and change them for euros in time for the changeover on January 1.
Government departments and public offices will be closed on December 31 in preparation for the euro transfer while banks will only accept cash deposits between 10.00 to 13.00 on that day.
On New Year's Day, key bank branches in town centres will open to the public from 11.00 to 14.00 to enable the exchange of pounds for euros.
Small retailers are also being advised to put in their euro orders early to avoid a crush at the banks and being left without the new currency come έ-Day.
Some businesses have been slow to get euros as they are concerned about having two sets of currency floating around due to security factors.
There is also a question of not having enough liquidity to keep enough stock of both currencies.
The Central Bank also urges the public to deposit any extra cash lying around before the end of the year to avoid a logjam. Banks are also accepting the old coins for the new.
All accounts will automatically switch to euros at the turn of the year, as will ATMS.
The Cyprus pound will remain legal tender until the end of January but all change will be given in euro when paying with the old currency.
And banks are obliged to exchange pounds for euros free of charge until June 30, although the Central Bank will accept Cyprus pound notes until 2017 and coins until the end of 2009.
It is estimated that most Cyprus pounds will be out of circulation within the first 15 days of the euros introduction. The old notes will be shredded while the coins will be melted for scrap metal.
Meanwhile, the dual pricing of goods will continue until September 30, 2008, to ensure the public gets used to the conversion rate.
Cheques denominated in Cyprus pounds and dated January 1, 2008 and after, will not be valid, so the public is advised to avoid accepting cheques in Cyprus pounds dated after December 31, 2007.
However, cheques in Cyprus pounds issued prior to January 1, 2008 will continue to be valid, for a period of six months from the date of their issue and will on presentation be paid in euro.
As the euro is an international currency and more inclined to be counterfeited, the authorities advise the public to make themselves familiar with the various notes to avoid being hoodwinked.
(Cyprus Weekly)

THE MEMBERS OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT HAVE LIVED THE POSSESSION OF CYPRUS

2007-12-20T17:39:00.000+02:00

The Cyprus Green Party condemns the provocative refusal of the Turkish occupying authorities to allow entry into the ghost city of Famagusta to MEPs, members of the Report Committee of the European Parliament.

The occupation authorities have banned the MEPs’ visit to the area of the city of Famagusta, which since the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, has been kept closed without residents, blocked by heavily armed Turkish soldiers.
The Greek Cypriot refugees, residents in the occupied town of Famagusta sent to the European Parliament thousands of signatures calling for the Parliament’s intervention to allow for the return of the city to its rightful inhabitants. The Cyprus Green Party practically supported the efforts of Famagusta Municipality for the collection of the signatures.
The European Union must demand from, as an indication of goodwill, to allow the resettlement of the legitimate inhabitants of Famagusta in their beloved city.

Traffic chaos created by the construction of the Malls

2007-12-15T15:52:00.000+02:00

The Green Party’s protest against the mall’s opening was so low-key it was barely noticed. Holding up two banners saying: “STOP the illegalities” and “Promises will not solve the traffic problem”, a number protesters stood opposite the mall during its opening and handed out leaflets on the environmental impact the new building will have on the area. “The Engomi area cannot handle the traffic shock and the congestion it will suffer will be worse than the one created in Strovolos Municipality and the new Nicosia General Hospital area,” read the flier, referring to the traffic chaos created by the construction of the Mall of Cyprus near the new hospital. “The Green Party is expressing its intense concern and opposition over the positioning of such huge trade developments in lived-in areas, which create undoubtedly serious consequences on the residents’ quality of life,” it added.

"NO" to illegal advertising boards

2007-12-09T15:55:00.000+02:00

Demonstration against the installation of illegal advertising boards, on Sunday, December 9th, at Athalassas Avenue, Strovolos. The Cyprus Green Party will continue its struggle against this illegality, until all city councils decide to remove them from their council territories.

THE GREEN Party has criticised the springing up of billboards featuring the main Presidential candidates.In an announcement, the Party stated that the billboards, “are in violation of municipal regulations”, implying that the contenders’ campaign teams are getting round the law by exerting their political influence.Party leader George Perdikis yesterday told the Mail: “The question is, if a candidate is breaking the law from now, what guarantee is there that he will not do exactly the same, if elected President?”He added that the candidates “should publicly come out and admit they’ve made a mistake and stop using billboards, as well as numerous illegal banners that have been seen in the streets. They should instead concentrate on advertising through the traditional channels of the media.”Perdikis also explained that his party has been running a campaign to put an end to the billboards since September.“We’ve personally met with Demetris Christofias, Ioannis Kasoulides and representatives of President Tassos Papadopoulos. Their response was to blame the municipalities, saying it was their responsibility for putting them up.”He added: “Of course, the candidates want to advertise themselves as much as they possible can, but the law must be respected in the process. We don’t want our public areas polluted.”
(Cyprus Mail)

‘Engomi mall another traffic disaster in the making’

2007-12-06T12:07:00.000+02:00

(By Elias Hazou - Cyprus Mail)

THE NEW mall in Engomi is a traffic disaster waiting to happen and will be a repeat of the nightmare with the Mall of Cyprus, experts have warned.
During a stormy session at the House this week, Technical Chamber ETEK claimed that area planning in Engomi did not allow for such a grand scale project.
ETEK director Linos Chrysostomou went on to slam the Town Planning Department for interpreting the law arbitrarily.
He said that having a mall in Engomi would necessitate tampering with the road grid, resulting in construction works costing millions, with taxpayers picking up the tab.
He also referred to the location of the Mall of Cyprus and IKEA next to the Nicosia General Hospital, which has worsened traffic congestion in the area, with authorities now rushing plans for an overpass to ease the situation.
“If a permit had not been issued, there would be no need now to build a bridge…I for one am not prepared to pay for this project because of the mistakes of others,” said Chrysostomou.
Town Planning head Yiannis Papadopoulos defended his department against accusations that they changed the designated use of the real estate for IKEA, which was originally slated for a hotel.
He argued this was justified because the change was not deemed “essential” in town planning terms.
Responding, Chrysostomou wondered how Papadopoulos interpreted town planning regulations, pointing out that the issue was straightforward: commercial development was barred in the area in question.
And he mentioned a host of other examples of irregular construction, including the Jumbo stores in Limassol and Nicosia and the Chris Cash & Carry hypermarket in Limassol.
For her part, Communications & Works Minister Maria Malaktou-Pamballi said the government would estimate the cost of the overpass and demand that the Shacolas Group “contribute” to the expenses resulting from the existence of the mall.
Papadopoulos agreed, threatening to revoke the building permit and shut down the mall unless the Shacolas Group paid its share of the infrastructure costs.
The dramatic statement provoked an equally theatrical riposte from Greens leader George Perdikis who, in flawless Cypriot dialect, asked Papadopoulos:
“Are you serious? Do you think that this is some kiosk you’re going to close?”
Perdikis went on to allege that the Shacolas Group was planning two more buildings adjacent to the general hospital which similarly lacked the proper permits.
DISY deputy Lefteris Christoforou said the way Town Planning operated reminded him of a spider’s nest “which large and powerful bugs are able to penetrate, but small bugs get entangled in.”
While it takes years for the average Joe to get a straightforward house extension approved, the bigwigs get permits for massive projects in the blink of an eye, he said.