Civil Defence responds to criticism
Growing criticism of Cyprus’ shelters has prompted a response from Civil Defence official Maria Pappa, who acknowledged that shelters may not have received the level of priority they required.
Speaking on the television programme “Protoselido,” Pappa addressed the intense criticism directed at the Civil Defence in recent weeks regarding the condition and preparedness of public shelters.
She described much of the criticism as unfair, stressing that the service is working with extremely limited resources.
“The criticism is somewhat unfair. A lot of work is being done with the staff we have in order to respond as effectively as possible,” she said.
Long-standing issue dating back decades
According to Pappa, the issue of shelters is a long-standing problem that dates back decades.
The shelter programme originally began many years ago with staffing from civil engineers and technical personnel. However, the programme was suspended in 2013 and the staff assigned to it were withdrawn and never replaced.
“Today there is no technician or engineer staffing this sector,” she said, highlighting the structural gap within the service.
Limited staff and efforts to restart programme
Pappa said that when she assumed responsibility for Civil Defence in 2021 she attempted to revive the programme.
She stressed that she considered the shelter system a critical component of preventive preparedness.
“I believed the sector was extremely important and that we should be prepared for any scenario. Unfortunately, the sector was never staffed,” she explained.
Civil Defence currently operates with only about 30 officers across all ranks, a number she described as insufficient to manage all responsibilities.
Around 1,100 shelters remain operational
Despite the challenges, Pappa said efforts were made to conduct sample inspections to ensure shelters remain usable.
She explained that most shelters operate thanks to voluntary cooperation from private property owners.
“The creation of shelters and the provision of space is based on private participation. Property owners voluntarily provide their premises,” she said.
According to Civil Defence estimates, roughly 1,100 shelters remain in good condition, while others have been deemed unsuitable for use.
Changes in property ownership have also created complications, as new owners do not always notify the service.
Database and mapping project stalled
Civil Defence also attempted to create a comprehensive database and map of shelters across the country.
However, the initiative was not completed due to the lack of personnel required to design the system, prepare specifications, and launch procurement procedures.
“To implement such a process you need staff to design the solution, prepare specifications, and proceed with tenders. It is a process that takes a very long time,” she said.
Pappa acknowledged that shelters may not have received the level of attention they deserved.
“In the case of shelters, perhaps the priority that should have been given was not given,” she admitted.
Shelters not the only form of protection
Pappa stressed that shelters represent only one element of civil protection planning.
If residents cannot reach a shelter within five to ten minutes on foot, she advised that it may be safer to remain at home and identify a secure area inside the building.
She also addressed the country’s siren warning system, noting that although a wide network exists, older technology has begun to face interference due to urban development.
Since 2021, Civil Defence has been working on drafting specifications for upgrading the system.
Funding challenges for upgrades
Pappa said funding proposals for such upgrades were repeatedly submitted through the state budget process but were ultimately removed at higher decision-making levels.
“I repeatedly submitted the necessary funds, but they were removed. At least I tried to prepare the specifications so we would be ready when approval was granted,” she said.
She concluded by emphasising that public warnings during emergencies must rely on multiple communication channels.
Sirens, mass alert systems, media outlets, and even traditional communication methods should all be used together to ensure the entire population is informed.
Also read: Cyprus leaders meeting in Nicosia amid war tensions
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