FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE— A sweeping audit of Cyprus’ Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has uncovered a series of serious administrative failures, legal violations, and unjustified delays, according to a report released by the country’s Audit Office.
Covering the years 2023–2024, the audit focused on environmental oversight and the management of state subsidies.
It also highlighted irregularities in the legalization of unauthorized developments and Cyprus’ compliance with European Union regulations.
Among the findings were instances of official documents altered with correction fluid and pencil notes that were erased and rewritten — practices the Audit Office described as “highly irregular.”
The report warns that these lapses could lead Cyprus before the European Court of Justice, with the risk of substantial fines looming over issues such as habitat protection and landfill mismanagement.
Despite repeated assurances from the ministry that corrective measures would be taken — including the issuance of decrees to manage protected areas — the Audit Office deemed progress insufficient. It cited the administration’s inability to respond effectively to critical environmental challenges.
Between June 2021 and December 2024, Cyprus’ failure to comply with the EU Habitats Directive escalated, prompting formal infringement proceedings by the European Commission.
The report notes that despite early warnings, the government did not establish specific conservation targets or issue the required protection and management decrees under national law.
The situation, according to the Audit Office, remains unresolved.