Construction illegalities under government’s microscope – minister

The interior ministry is examining proposals on how to prevent illegalities in under-construction buildings, a responsibility handed over to the newly formed district self-governance organisations.

Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou met on Wednesday with the heads of the district organisations to discuss hiccups in procedures and their financial autonomy.

In statements after the meeting, Ioannou said the common goal, which was to see the local administration reforms succeed, was reaffirmed.

Ioannou said the technocratic nature of the district organisations must be maintained and strengthened.

He added that to make improvements, they agreed to amend the relevant decree, so that the town planning authority can forward cases with serious considerations to the council of the district organisation, in order to promote development and at the same time safeguard public interests.

Such considerations include the environment, the maximum number of floors and opposition from local authorities or residents, to name but a few.

The interior ministry is also working on amending legislation obliging the district organisations to pay 60 per cent of their revenue from licensing to the municipalities.

Ioannou said this legislative provision was a serious block in the financial independence of the district organisations.

“The government’s position is that the district organisations must fully benefit from their revenue from licensing,” Ioannou said.

He added that a temporary solution has already been found for this year and the long-term aim is for any cost not to affect the public.

The meeting also discussed technical problems through the Ippodamos system – the online portal covering building permits – and it was agreed that further training be offered to the staff.

Regarding staffing, Ioannou said the district organisations would be able to hire staff as soon as the House gives its approval in October.

On green points and waste management, Ioannou said existing legislation did not provide for imposing taxes on behalf of the district organisations and that a workgroup would be set up to look into the matter.

Asked about dealing with illegalities in buildings, a responsibility that now lies with the district organisations, the minister said the legislative framework needed improving.

Ioannou said the government had already taken corrective action in many cases, however the district organisations had now taken over and were currently understaffed.

In conclusion, Ioannou said it was still early days, any difficulties would be ironed out and the ministry was ready to assist whenever asked.