A new bill mandating civil engineer inspections of Turkish Cypriot properties before allocation to eligible refugees sparked mixed responses from lawmakers in a House refugee committee meeting on Tuesday. The bill, introduced by MPs Christos Senekis, Nikos Kettiros, and Michalis Yiakoumis, aims to address ongoing issues regarding the condition and allocation of these properties.
Following the discussion, committee members offered contrasting viewpoints, with some describing the bill as “well-balanced” while others expressed “great concern” over its provisions.
According to existing laws, Turkish Cypriot properties are leased to refugees who fulfill specific eligibility criteria. However, concerns have been raised over whether these properties are going to the intended recipients, a point revisited in previous committee discussions.
Akel MP and committee chairman, Nikos Kettiros, who described the bill as “well-balanced,” noted that it emphasizes building safety and could be presented to the House plenum within two weeks. He pointed out that many long-standing issues had accumulated over the past decade, and this legislation could streamline the allocation process to ensure that the properties are effectively used by those in need. Kettiros also mentioned that Anthi Lakkotrypi, director of the Turkish Cypriot properties management service, supported the bill, adding that it could help identify unrecorded and unused houses.
Approximately 25 properties remain vacant, including those that had previously been allocated but left unused. Kettiros explained that conducting these visual inspections would reveal the total number of available properties.
On the other hand, Disy MP Rita Superman voiced significant concerns, stressing the importance of safeguarding eligible displaced individuals. She criticized the government’s perceived inability or reluctance to enforce existing laws or establish lasting solutions for displaced persons, calling for more sustainable measures to address the housing issue.
Source: Cyprus Mail