The President of the Republic Mr. Nicos Christodoulides visited today the Katsani camp in Stavrovouni, headquarters of the 33rd Ranger Squadron.
Speaking to the SYOP, the President of the Republic said that "it was a wise decision to move forward with you SYOP. But I know very well the problems that exist, I know that you are in fact receiving the training of the state, and I know that because of the facts of your recruitment, a significant number of you are leaving and going to the private sector.
I would like to be here today, and I want to make it clear - so as not to create any false impression - that this is also recorded in our election programme, which we will implement, we will implement what we have promised the Cypriot people, such as upgrading the conditions of your employment in the National Guard.
As things stand today, I fully understand why the majority of you choose at some stage to leave the National Guard.
And I would like to take this opportunity to promise you that one of the first things that the Minister of Defence will deal with, one of the first issues that we as a Government will deal with is your terms of employment, so that we do not lose so many valued personnel, so many people, men and women, men and women, in whom we invest every day. So, I would like to inform you about one of our first actions concerning the institution of SYOPs."
The President of the Republic laid a wreath at the Memorial of the Fallen of the 33rd Ranger Squadron and a minute's silence was observed in memory of the fallen, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.
Immediately afterwards, the President was given a tour of the site and then President Christodoulides watched military exercises by the commandos.
Subsequently, the Commander of the Camp presented the President of the Republic with an honorary plaque and President Christodoulides said that "as from the first days of our government, our contact with the National Guard in general and with all units such as the 33rd Ranger Squadron will be continuous."
The President of the Republic was accompanied by the Minister of Defence, Mr. Michalis Giorgallas, the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Demokritos Zervakis, Deputy Government Spokesperson Mrs. Doxa Komodromou and other officials.
(PM/EP/SX)
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