FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou has met with representatives of the United Cyprus Hunters Movement for a discussion on key issues.
Topics included stricter penalties for poaching, granting the Game and Fauna Service authority to use cameras and drones, and a proposal to introduce immediate arrest procedures.
Ioannou noted that a bill addressing increased penalties was submitted in December 2024 for legal review, and potential new measures would be examined with the Legal Service.
The minister also highlighted updates to regulations for photovoltaic park development, emphasizing environmental and wildlife protections.
Current policies freeze applications for state land and outline exclusion zones, including Natura areas and migratory bird paths, in line with a strategic environmental review.
Addressing requests to expand dog training areas during nesting and breeding seasons, Ioannou explained the constraints imposed by EU Directive 2009/147/EC, reiterating that evaluations would continue to ensure compliance while balancing community concerns.
Ioannou assured participants of ongoing dialogue and cooperation, stressing the importance of aligning local priorities with legal and environmental obligations.