They are being reinforced and prepared, in every possible way, the firefighting forces in Cyprus, with the two new leased aircraft already stationed at their bases.
These are the two Spanish Air Tractor aircraft which are now operationally ready to be thrown into the battle to extinguish the fires, and are reportedly already stationed at their base at Paphos airport.
Speaking to the Cyprus Times, the Forestry Department's spokesman, George Constantinou, said that the current tender for the lease of two more aircraft to assist in staffing the department is expected to be completed within days.
As Constantinou explained about the leased aircraft, the government reaches an agreement with the company and they come to Cyprus for a period of time, together with their crew and engineers.
So far, the Republic of Cyprus has secured a total of four leased fire-fighting aircraft, whose contract runs until the end of the summer season, i.e. until the end of October.
Seven aircraft available
Asked about the number of aircraft that can, at the moment, operate in the event of a fire, the Forestry Department spokesman told the Cyprus Times that we are talking about a total of seven aircraft.
More specifically, these are two Forestry Department-owned helicopters based at Larnaca airport, two leased aircraft stationed and operating at Akrotiri, two leased aircraft at Paphos airport, one from the National Guard and two from the British Bases to assist in the efforts should the need arise.
Filling positions and new recruitments
Regarding human resources in the Forestry Department, according to the spokesman, recruitments were made,
both in hourly staff and in filling positions of forestry officers.
According to him, some 111 hourly staff and 23 forestry officers were hired while another 31 are expected to be filled.
"Shortages certainly exist but the important thing is that we are improving," he said. Better picture, so far
[/P]Asked about this summer and the picture that has been presented, so far, regarding the fires that have occurred, Mr. Constantinou said. In particular, he said, "this year, due to the weather conditions and climate change, the picture presented is much better compared to the same period in previous years, with the exception of last year's big summer fire."
In particular, he said, "this year, due to the weather conditions and climate change, the picture presented is much better compared to the same period in previous years, excluding last year's big summer fire."
"This, of course, does not reassure us at all, as the risk remains and it is important for people to be aware that they need to take extra care with their movements," he noted.
In conclusion, it was hoped that thanks to the relevant ministers and departments, the Forest Department and firefighting forces are heading for the better.
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs Cyprus Times
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or Cyprus Times
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