The Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (TFMR) expressed its sadness about the recent statements of the Ineia municipality head regarding the protection of the sea turtles’ nests in the protected area of “Lara.”
In an announcement, the Department noted that sea turtles and their eggs have been protected in Cyprus since 1971 with various laws and regulations both local and foreign. According to this legal framework, actions like the destruction or attempt to destroy the nests/eggs of sea turtles is prohibited and cannot be justified.
As the Department further added, the Program for the Protection of Sea Turtles in Cyprus is recognized at a European but also at an international level as one of the most successful programs of biodiversity.
Finally, the announcement concluded by pointing out that the Department, in coordination with all relevant services, will make sure of protecting turtles from any radical action which would have negative consequences on them.
