Today we are taking another step in strengthening the security chain in the wider area of Larnaca District by inaugurating the renovated Athienou Police Station.
It is commonly accepted that the Municipality of Athienou has developed rapidly and dynamically in recent years, despite the difficulties it admittedly faces. That is why we as a Government have recognized these increased needs and today we are placing another important link, which in conjunction with the new Fire Station that we recently inaugurated, as well as the policies of our Ministry, aims not only to strengthen the security chain but also to achieve one of the main objectives that we have set among our priorities:
the creation of a more human face and a stable relationship of respect and trust between the Police and society, which we need.
Our police stations are the places where every citizen comes into contact with our members. That is why our effort is, through the creation of decent premises with the necessary logistical support, to strengthen the feeling of trust of citizens towards the Police.
Our goal is that the facilities that house the Police Corps should be modern, functional, ensure appropriate working conditions for the staff, as well as conditions for faster service for citizens.
Within the last decade, many important projects of the Police have been implemented throughout Cyprus.
Within the last decade, many important projects of the Police have been implemented throughout Cyprus. We paid special attention to the communities and local Police Stations, because we do not focus only on urban centres. We come close to the local communities through the new local stations which are the point of contact and communication between the citizen and the Police.
At this point let me congratulate those who contributed to the implementation of the project, the Chief of Police for his personal involvement, the Municipality of Athens and especially the Mayor, my friend Kyriakos Karekla, for his contribution and the Department of Public Works.
At this point let me congratulate those who contributed to the implementation of the project, the Chief of Police for his personal involvement, the Municipality of Athens and especially the Mayor, my friend Kyriakos Karekla, for his contribution and the Department of Public Works.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Along with the above, we recognize the ever-changing demands and difficulties faced by every citizen, as well as the new forms of crime that our Police are called upon to deal with.
Therefore, as you will be aware, the Ministry of Justice and the Cyprus Police are rapidly proceeding with the reorganisation of the Force, so that our Police can be modernised and ready to meet its increased operational tasks. This is why the Force's budget has been gradually increasing over the last few years, reaching €303.5 million in 2023 with a 9% increase compared to 2022. In order to cover a wide range of activities such as the purchase of modern equipment, the implementation of new building projects and the promotion of the reorganisation of the Police.
But I return to the issue of human resources, and I take this opportunity today to address our Police officers to assure you that as a State we stand firmly by your side.
The Anastasiades Government's practical appreciation of the work you are doing, as I mentioned in my speech at the inauguration of the new fire station, is also reflected in the recent decision taken to upgrade the pay scales of the Police. At the same time, however, 119 new organic posts have been approved for our Police.
We are aware of the efforts you make every day to fully perform your duty for the safety of the country and its citizens, and through our actions we want to express a big thank you.
By officially handing over the renovated Police Station to the Municipality of Athienou, Mr. Mayor, I assure you that as a state we remain close to you to support your efforts and work.
And as I have been assured by the Chief of Police, with the completion of the new recruitment process, the Athienou station will be reinforced with additional personnel.
Thank you.
(ΕΠ/ΣΧ)
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