In a recent decision, the Council of Ministers has established a three-member committee to investigate the diversion of water from the Kouri River to unauthorized fish farming facilities in Trimiklini.
This marks the third simultaneous inquiry into serious irregularities identified by relevant authorities.
The Parliamentary Environmental Committee is already conducting two investigations into the matter.
The first, a self-initiated inquiry, aims to determine whether there have been historical illegalities or omissions, raising suspicions of corruption involving state officials.
The second investigation by the Audit Service is underway and expected to conclude by December 2023. The Audit Service confirmed the illegal water diversion from the Kouri River and exposed the operation of illegal fish farming facilities, recreational centers, guest accommodations, and unauthorized development encroaching on state land.
Additionally, it revealed securing European subsidies through potentially fraudulent means.
Correspondence between government departments indicates not only tolerance but also cover-ups of the illegalities.
Instances were identified where department heads exceeded their authority, legitimizing some of the illegal actions.
Although corrective measures were taken last year, the illegal operation of the facilities persists a year later.
The development in question reveals numerous violations falling under the responsibilities of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, as well as the Ministry of Interior.
These violations, according to state service notes, include breaches of provisions of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, the Department of Environment, the Department of Water Development, the Department of Town Planning and Housing, the Department of Land and Surveys, and the District Officer of Limassol.
Among the violations are:
(a) Alteration of riverbanks, construction of three large-scale earth tanks, bridge construction, and significant concrete intervention along the river,
(b) Violation of terms accompanying the establishment and operation license of the fish farming facility, conducting aquaculture activities outside the designated area, (
c) Lack of environmental licensing,
(d) Improper use of leased land,
(e) Development on agricultural land and the river protection zone. In all cases, urban and construction permits were not obtained.
