"We Should Have Responded Better" President Apologizes for Fire Response

President Apologizes for Government Response to Limassol Fires

President Nikos Christodoulides addressed the nation on Sunday evening, offering a formal apology on behalf of the state for its response to the devastating fires that swept through villages in the Limassol region. The fires resulted in two fatalities and left over 120 square kilometers of land burned. In a televised statement, he acknowledged the government's failure to act as it should have during this critical time.

Christodoulides outlined 12 immediate actions the government will take to support those affected by the fires. He emphasized the importance of examining what went wrong, why it didn't work, and implementing necessary corrective measures. To ensure transparency, he instructed all involved departments to submit full assessment reports regarding their role in managing the fires by the end of the week. These reports will be made public, and subsequent steps will be determined based on their findings.

Meeting with Community Leaders

In an effort to better understand the impact of the fires, Christodoulides met with community leaders from the affected villages, along with relevant ministers and the mountains commissioner. After listening to their assessments and personal testimonies about the events and the weaknesses identified, he stated that the government had agreed on immediate actions to support those impacted. He assured the people that the government would stand by them during this difficult time.

He urged the public to hold the government to high standards, as is expected in a democracy striving for improvement. At the same time, he emphasized the need for unity to move forward and make necessary changes.

Expressing Sorrow and Gratitude

The president expressed his deepest sorrow for the lives lost in the fires, offering sincere condolences to the families of the victims. He highlighted the extraordinary efforts of professionals and volunteers who worked under extremely challenging conditions to combat the fires and prevent further damage. He specifically thanked firefighters, forestry firefighters, community leaders, volunteers, police, state services, members of the National Guard, and Civil Defence for their dedication and bravery.

Despite these efforts, Christodoulides acknowledged that the system’s weaknesses and mechanisms require improvement to better respond to such critical incidents. He noted that steps had already been taken to increase firefighter personnel, secure aerial assets, enforce stricter penalties, and transfer aerial resources to the National Guard. However, he stressed the need to identify what did not work and make necessary adjustments.

Apology and Commitment to Improvement

As a state, Christodoulides said it was essential to recognize all gaps and omissions, acknowledging that the response fell short during this critical moment. On behalf of the state, he offered a formal apology. He also warned that such phenomena, driven by climate change, are likely to continue.

To address the immediate needs of the affected communities, the government announced the immediate payment of financial support to community councils. Additional assistance will be provided in consultation with the communities. Temporary housing, basic needs, psychological support, and rent subsidies for uninhabitable homes will also be covered.

Financial Support and Compensation

For properties damaged or destroyed, the government will provide financial support for full restoration. For homes without insurance that were completely destroyed, funds will be allocated for rebuilding. For partially damaged homes, assessments will be conducted using updated price lists that reflect market values. Insured homes will receive the deductible amount immediately.

Christodoulides also announced immediate compensation covering 100% of income loss for one year for farmers and livestock breeders in the affected areas. A plan for the reactivation and restoration of infrastructure and machinery for both professionals and non-professionals will be implemented. Small businesses will also receive support.

Assistance for Affected Families

A lump sum assistance will be provided to families whose homes suffered total or significant damage. Each family with a completely destroyed primary residence will receive €10,000, along with €2,000 for each dependent child. Families with partial damage will receive €5,000, plus €1,000 per dependent child. Vulnerable or low-income individuals will receive additional individualized support.

Monthly compensation for three months will also be provided to employees and self-employed individuals whose businesses were affected and cannot operate.

Restoration of Services and Relief

The government announced plans to restore the majority of water supply and electricity networks in the coming days. Permanent residents and businesses will not be required to pay annual community fees and taxes, with the government covering the total amount. Environmental restoration of the affected area will also be prioritized.

Commitment to Unity and Progress

As the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Christodoulides emphasized his responsibility to address the nation during this period of hardship. He reiterated the government’s mission to meet the expectations of the people. In times of difficulty, he called for unity to support, correct, and improve, ensuring success for the country.