Filenews 10 February 2024
The Minister of Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou, is trying to respond to the reactions of the parties regarding the reform of Local Government, noting that although it is not ideal, the government is ready for its implementation.
Mr. Ioannou underlines that he had long expressed his concern about the fact that the mergers were not made on the basis of economic and population data, as well as the fact that when he tried to make improvements to the Law, he did not find a response from the Parliament.
Furthermore, he lists some of the problems identified, while noting that citizens will not be able to enjoy the benefits of the reform to the same extent, In conclusion, he reiterates that the Government is determined to work together with the Parliament to overcome the obstacles and win the bet of the Reform.
The written statement of the Minister of Interior Constantinos Ioannou is as follows:
In relation to the public debate on the reform of Local Government, I would like to note that from the beginning the problems I had referred to had been identified, both during my appearance before the House of Representatives and in my public statements. In particular, I had long expressed my concerns about the number of municipalities, but also the fact that the mergers did not take place on the basis of economic and population data, with the result that today, in some cases, there is not the critical mass that will allow certain municipalities to be as viable as others.
At the same time, we had seen the problems created, such as the presence of such a large number of Deputy Mayors, the amount of their remuneration, but also the dysfunction created by the decision for the direct election of the President of the District Self-Government Organizations (EDA) by the people. In due course, we tried to change some things in relation to the above and in particular we had prepared a proposal to amend the legislation, but there was no corresponding support from the parties.
We want to be honest with people and honest with citizens. We recognise that there are problems and that not all citizens will be able to enjoy the benefits of the reform to the same extent. As evidenced by the statements of the former Ministers, the final result, although clearly better than the current operating model of Local Government, is not ideal. However, as an executive, we are ready to implement the legislation and are committed to working towards a successful implementation of the reform.
At the same time, I would like to underline that the implementation of the reform is in the hands of the Local Authorities themselves and that is why the Interim Coordinating Councils (SCPs) should put the issue at the top of their priorities. We are concerned about the fact, for example, that just four months before the reform, only the Nicosia SCP has found a building to house the District's EDA. I therefore call on all those responsible to look into the issue and focus their attention on the actions that need to be taken before 1 July, in order to ensure the operation of strong Organizations that will serve citizens more efficiently.
From our side, as the Ministry of Interior, we have a supporting role and we stand by the Municipalities to provide all possible assistance and support their efforts, whether they concern the completion of the "EVAGORAS" System or the preparation of organizational charts, draft budgets, etc. We attach particular importance to the big chapter of transferring licensing to the EDAs and, in order to make the transition as smooth as possible, we have taken steps to simplify licensing procedures, as well as to recruit additional staff to adequately staff the Agencies.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the Government's commitment and determination to work together with the House of Representatives and the Municipalities to overcome the obstacles and win the great bet of implementing the reform of Local Government, for the benefit of society.
