Cyprus is set to introduce a temporary system of sailing bans based on weather conditions, vessel size and tonnage, following recent maritime tragedies, including the fatal incident at Cape Greco.
The measure was announced by Justice and Public Order Minister Costas Fytiris after a high-level meeting at the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) on Tuesday, attended by Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis, Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis and other officials.
Cabinet decision expected
According to Fytiris, the Cabinet is expected to approve a decision, potentially as early as Wednesday, introducing restrictions on departures depending on weather conditions and the characteristics of vessels.
The measure will remain in force until legislation establishing the new Cyprus Coast Guard is passed by parliament.
"A decision will be issued by the Council of Ministers, hopefully tomorrow, concerning the prohibition of departures depending on weather conditions and the size and tonnage of vessels," Fytiris said.
"This will help everyone understand that there will be consequences for those who violate the decision."
Triggered by Cape Greco tragedy
The meeting focused on maritime safety and protective measures during dangerous weather conditions in the aftermath of last Saturday's fatal incident at Cape Greco.
Officials discussed ways to strengthen prevention mechanisms and improve coordination between agencies responsible for maritime safety.
According to Fytiris, the tragedy highlighted weaknesses that the government had already identified.
"Today there is a dispersion of responsibilities, something we had identified for decades."
He noted that the government decided in March to establish a Coast Guard, with the aim of creating:
"A single coordinating authority for all maritime activities."
Coast Guard bill heading to parliament
Fytiris said the Coast Guard legislation is currently undergoing legal review before being submitted to parliament.
The government intends to prioritise its passage.
"This incident brought to the surface certain distortions which we will address during the transitional period through a series of decisions taken today."
The minister added that the future law will include penalties for anyone violating directives issued under the Coast Guard framework.
Enhanced enforcement
Authorities also discussed how weather-related restrictions would be enforced.
Responsibility for monitoring compliance will fall to:
- The Port and Marine Police.
- Cyprus Police.
- The Police Air Wing.
According to Fytiris, once adverse weather warnings are issued by the Meteorological Service, authorities will conduct checks along the coastline and direct vessels operating outside ports and marinas to return to safe harbour.
"There must be timely inspections of the coastline so that everyone outside ports and marinas is instructed to enter them for protection."
Praise for rescue operation
Commenting on Saturday's rescue effort, Fytiris said the operation was coordinated by the JRCC and involved significant risks for rescue crews.
"It was conducted with major risk to the helicopters and that should be recognised."
He added that conditions were extremely difficult, with three vessels near rocks and two eventually lost.
"Perhaps even worse outcomes were prevented."
Appeal to vessel owners
The minister concluded by urging vessel owners and the public to follow official weather warnings and navigation advisories.
"We hope and believe that we will make sure such an incident never happens again."
"But we also need the cooperation of citizens and vessel owners to heed the warnings issued by both the Meteorological Service and the JRCC."
Source: CNA
