It is very easy to pass by the cultural places to visit inCyprusdue to the beautiful beaches, hot climate and many dining and clubbing venues and also many leisure facilities.  Cyprus is full of wonderful and interesting history and for those who can take a little time out to visit these places you will be very surprised just how much the culture, artefacts and monuments will take your breath away.

NICOSIA (Lefkosia)  The Capital Of Cyprus

• CyprusMuseum
• St. Johns Cathedral
• Venetian Walls
• Laiki Geitonia
• Handicraft Centre
• LeventisMuseum
• The Archbishopric

Limassol ( Lemesos)

• Limassol Castle
• Kolossi Castle
• Municipal Gardens and Museum
• Temple of Apollo
• Ancient Amathus
• Phassouri Vineyards
• Cyprus Wine Museum

LARNACA (Larnaka)

• Church of St. Lazarus
• The Salt Lake
• LefkaraVillage
• Pierides Museum
• Church of Panagia Angeloktisti
• KornosVillage
• Stavrovouni Monastery
• Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement
• Hala Sultan Tekke

PAPHOS (Pafos)

• The Harbour
• The Castle
• Tomb of the Kings
• TempleofAphrodite
• Paphos Forests
• St Pauls Pillar
• The mosaics – Petra tou Romiou

FAMAGUSTA

• AgiaNapaVenitian Monastery
• SeaCaves-CapeGreko
• AgiaNapaHarbour
• Paralimni old shopping centre
• Thalassa Museum

And of course not forgetting the truly amazing Troodos Mountains where you will see the whole ofCyprus and meet some very culture and historcail villages upon the way.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 22ND NOVEMBER 2011

Lane 1 – This lane is the lane to the far left. It is used to drive as normal as you would on any road or highway. National speed limit applies.

Lane 2 – This is the middle lane on a 3 lane highway. This lane is used to overtake cars in lane 1.  This lane is not to be used to drive normally for long distance. It is used only for over taking and then you must manuver back into lane 1.

Lane 3 – This is predominatly called the fast lane. It is used for over taking cars that are going at a slower pace in lane 1 and 2.  It is also used for when there are traffic queues to overtake in a bid to ease conjestion. This lane is again only used for over taking as in lane 2 not for normal driving as in lane 1.

DO NOT

Do not stay in lane 2 and 3 all the way to your destination these are for overtaking only to ease congestion.

If someone is driving too slowly or using lane  3 as their normal driving lane do not overtake by going into lane 2 on the inside  this is very dangerous. It is better to indicate with your lights that they must manuver  to lane 1 or 2 in order for you to overtake.

Do not drive to slowly on a motorway even in lane 1 there is a national speed limit which not only applies to speed but also to lack of speed. The speed limit is 100kilometers even if you are driving in the fast lane.

If you require further information on how to use the highway look this up on the internet or visit your local police station.  For citizens travelling on the new 3 lane motorway in Cyprus they have been given a 2 week grace period anyone caught not abiding by national motorway laws will be penalized in accordance with Cyprus laws.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 18^TH NOVEMBER 2011.

A&G Kouzali Cypriot Lawyers – Review – Weaving In Cyprus

Weaving was very popular back the day but as time passes and the generations become more engrossed with technology the Cyprus old traditions have sadly lost there way. Plus with cloth becoming so cheap to import weavers quickly became a thing of the past and the skill to weave was also lost.

You used to find weavers in every village in Cyprus weaving away on the old traditional weaving machine making many beautiful and useful cloths now it is very far between and mainly just for tourist attraction. It is also very hard to find the old weaving machines called ‘looms’ except as we said for tourist attraction.

Nicosia and Famagusta were very famous for weaving silk and this was exported internationally through the port, also Lapithos was very popular for weaving silk found near Kerynia this was many years ago. This Cypriot tradition eventually lost its way in the 20th century when eastern countries began to offer expert silk at very low prices.

You can find in Strovolos Nicosia a workshop operated by a certain gentleman wanting to keep the tradition alive and even revive the tradition and he goes by the name of Rolandos Loucaides.

Mr Loucaides studied the whole weaving mechanics, purchased a loom that was still in perfect working condition and away he went. further studying the techniques and fabrics and bringing back to life the hand woven Cyprus clothes which can be found hanging in the shop window and all around his shop.

This is a definite place to visit when you are in Nicosia for locals and tourists. we should all visit such places and show our support in keeping such important Cypriot culture alive. Not only is it very interesting but you will also find some really traditionally and unique beautiful pieces to definitely be treasured.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 24TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Lawyers in Cyprus- Review – Cyprus Villages

There are many magical villages in Cyprus that we are sure many do not pay quite so much attention too and we are positive tourists will know nothing about.

One in particular is a small quaint village by the name of PACHNA.  It may be a small village but it has very big attributes to the Cyprus culture and heritage.

Pachna is high in the hills off the highway in between Limassol and Paphos.  This quaint village is home to little under 1000 hectares of vineyards producing some ofCyprusmost famous wines.  The vineyards here having been in operation for well over five decades and this is only the first attribute this village is home to.

Pachna has 7 churches not all in use but all very well taken care of and preserved. The newest church to the village is the church of Agios Georgeios the older chapels include Agia Marina, Agios Andronicos< Agios Nikolas<Agios Epiphanios, 12 Apostles and Agious Stephanos.  The village of the 7 churches how amazing is this.

The village of course has modern amenities for everyday use but on a whole the village is very Cypriot and very well preserved.  There are traditional Cypriot taverns restaurants and what would a village be without the coffee shops for the men to sit out side playing their games and socializing.

This village produces the best halloumi not to be missed and you will see many of the farmers moving their goats from pasture to pasture.  And the water here is so pure that all the forestry flourishes

This really is a traditional treat for every one of all ages to visit.  So for the best tasting wine and halloumi cheese and a perfect unspoilt traditional day out Pachna is the place for you.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 24TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Cyprus Law Firm – Review – Cyprus Wine

Wine producing inCyprushas been in operation since the island was born.Cyprusis in the top 40 countries for wine production and produces 40,000 tons of wine every year.

The first commercial wine company was formed in 1844 this was when residents actually decided to make revenue from the wine before hand it had been made for local use only.  The company was called ETKO.  Since then the wine industry expanded and there were 4 main wine producing companies inCyprus. ETKO, LOEL, SODAP and KEO.

From the past years export of wine became big revenue for theCyprusIslandand smaller wineries began to emerge. Of course as time passed and new laws come into action and with accession in to the EU many things have changed.

Many positive things have happened for the wineries and many new wines have been and still are being produced to be recognised on international levels.

Cyprus is now a well known wine producing country producing top quality wine and the many vineyards scattered around Cyprus and the wineries themselves where visitors can visit for wine tasting tours are an absolute treat.

The wine industry inCyprusis so popular now thatCyprusholds wine festivals where many nationals from all over the country come to visit and wine tasting competitions take place inCyprusand internationally.  The EU now helps 122 wineries inCyprusto harvest their produce that’s how far the wine industry has come inCyprusand evolving everyday.

You can also visit theCyprusWineMuseumwhich is a fantastic day out for all the family where you can taste some of the most famousCypruswine and learn all about the wine industry spanning back over 5 decades!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 24TH NOVEMBER 2011

Lawyers in Famagusta – Reviews – Cyprus Forst 3 Land Motorway

Cyprus offcially has its first completed 3 lane highway accommodating thousands of cars each day travelling into Nicosia.  However, citizens do not actually know how to use a highway.

This is quite funny when you think we are in the 21^st Century!

The 3 lane highway has taken little under 2 years to complete and was devised to help the long queues of traffic travelling into the islands capital everyday.  Previously  it would be very common to sit in queues for quite awhile and now hopefully the highway will prevent this.  The main reason for this new highway is the hope that it will cut down the amount of road traffic accidents. This wont take affect until citizens actually know how to use it properly.

The police however, have issued a warning to car travellers to do their homework on how to use a motorway as they are only allowing a 2 week grace period for those who are not using it correctly.  Anyone  caught not using the highway correctly after the 2 week period will be penalized in accordance with the traffic laws.

To be fair the UK has had motorways since before time and people still dont know how to use them so for the Cyprus Island to get used to it in 2 weeks is asking alot. It is very simple to use but some travellers either one can not be bothered and drive how they like or two really do not know and drive where they feel more comfortable.

The new motorway starts from the Larnaca/Limassol highway connect straight through to Nicosia.  The whole project costed around over 30 Million euros and was actually completed beofre schelue wow thats a first also for Cyprus!

Congratulations for the first 3 lane motorway in Cyprus!

Check out our article on how to safely and correctly use the new 3 lane motorway.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 18^TH NOVEMEBR 2011

Lawyers inCyprus- Review -CyprusDeficit – Completed on 21st November 2012

It is thought very unlikely thatCypruswill reach the EU directive on the country’s deficit in the given timeframe.  This means further sanctions and more pressure on the public to cover the sanctions we are sure about that!

The targeted percentage to reach by 2012 is below 3% however thoughts are we will be lucky to see below 5% which could means instant fines toCyprus.

Austerity measures proposed have been repeatedly discussed and rejected and the government have yet to agree on such austerity measures that will help the deficit.  Very little has been done to cut expenditure especially when it comes to the state payroll its self.  And who will this fall on the public!

The government are now on a tightrope to secure tough austerity measures to make sure the deadline and targeted percentage are met.

Its is all fine and dandy the EU forcing states to make sure this happens but by enforcing more sanctions as we have said before only bears more pressure on us the tax payer.  Can the EU not add a clause with the sanction that the public must not pay for the governments mistakes and the government must carry the burden alone…yes this is a dream of course!

It is thought that 2013 will be the year to see positive growth whereas 2012 will remain stagnant and the key to keeping 2012 turn into a negative year will be the hope of another good year for tourism.  The rise in VAT to 17% if passed is expected to see the country’s deficit drop 1% which is a big figure so doubt this will be rejected.

Well all we can say is 2012 will be a hard year for the Cyprus public if such harsh austerity measures are needed to avoid an EU bailout but will it be such a hard year for government staff members lets wait and see?

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 21ST NOVEMBER 2011.

Law firm on the East Coast Cyprus – Review – UK Financial Crisis

If we think we have it bad inCyprusmaybe we should take a trip to theUKand see how bad they have things at the moment.

When the government inCyprustalks about new austerity measures they have maybe a 2-3 year plan in mind.  But theUKis talking about a 10 year plan. We always think the grass is greener but is it really?

The UK nationals already give 50% of their salaries to the government, They pay poll tax, they pay tax on the weight of their rubbish the dustbin men take away, they pay TV licence fees, infact as soon as you buy a new TV in the UK your name and address must given to register the new TV with the licensing office.

Banks are pretty much in the same boat asCyprus,Britainused to offer high loan to value mortgages those days are very much a thing of the past and mortgages are very hard to come by. Therefore getting on the property ladder unless you are a cash buyer is virtually impossible.  The only reprieve the housing market has is the given tax advantages of renting out theUKproperty

The list goes on and on.  Employment is strife in theUK, many are homeless and even though they have stricter laws, drugs, guns and gangs are the norm. So once again we reiterate is the grass really greener on the other side?

It is thought that a 10 year austerity plan will benefit Britain a lot more than a short sharp austerity plan so UK nationals I don’t know what the government can actually now tax you on as it seems they get the majority of your cash already but it seems you have a long 10 years a head of you!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 28TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Lawyers inFamagusta- Review – 20/20 Youth Federation

Efforts for reunification of the Cyprus Island are taking place throughout the younger generations in a bid that they will actually influence their elders and the politicians.

This is a great idea…Where better to start! The younger generation are the future and they are the ones we must educate from early to stop those taking already very set views from the older generation.

Feelings inCyprusare very mixed. The older generation of Cypriots that lived through the Turkish invasion find it very hard to naturally digress.  Their experiences of themselves and their parents through this time are concrete in their memories but the younger generations have fresher memories and only hear second hand so there is more of chance that feelings on the situation can be overcome!

An event recently took place from young individuals from both sides of theIslandnamely the 20/20 youth conference. The event gives all the youngsters the opportunity to work peacefully together and put forward their ideas for a harmonious reunification.  There were 3 different workshops which allowed them to create posters and videos and declarations which can be used to promote the islands reunification.

The project is organized by both Greek and Turkish Cypriot volunteers of which will be a continuous project and we hope it will bring many more of the younger Greek and Turkish Cypriot generation together and further the relationship island wide between the two sides.

As we have said before it is in the peoples hands more so than the politicians.  The politicians deal with the formalities the people deal with the realities!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 28TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Famagusta Lawyers – Review – Energy costs affecting Christmas

We have Christmas round the corner once again and sorry to say this year may not be so bright and festive. Why is this?….simply because the cost of energy in Cyprus will make many companies and households think twice about using such high amounts of power.

How sad have things become here that we are now having to cut down on Chrsitamd lights to save on electric bills.

On the good side citizens are also taking into consideration the energy saving factor not just relating to financial costs but also to the general energy saving issue. Especially after the Mari blast explosion.
Many municipalities are only decorating main buildings and many road sides will not be decorated as per usual. Many new types of energy saving lights have been bought. And some municipalities will have time restrictions.
Its a sad state of affairs when Chrsitams comes around and we have to think about energy costs instead of the festive season to be had. But thats how it is folks with regards to the electric here. Every mistake thats made comes to us through our electric bills.

Evem after Chrsitamd we are expecting another increase in energy costs thats a great start for the new year.

Wecan over come this by buying low consumption lighting and having them the lights on at the most convenient times of the day when they will be the most visable.
Many business owners are weary that not lighting up their business will drop the level of Chrsitmad spirit hence drop the level in comsumer activity.
This is a fact of life we just have to deal with at the moment until the government and departments get their house in order!
PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 19TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Cyprus Lawyers-Review-Recycling - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

We try to cover every month a topic on the environment and climate change.  This is a topic we feel very strongly about and will continue to promote water saving and recycling and any issue we feel should be undertaken by the public to help the climate.

It does not take a lot of effort maybe a few extra minutes every day out of your time just to make sure you are doing your bit for climate change.  It is not a lot to ask but the rewards will definitely be high in the future.

Recycling is very easy, very quick and a lot more hygienic.  If you have 3 separate bins in your home even just small ones with different coloured bags, it is good to buy the same coloured bags as the public recycling bins to make it easier for you to deposit them in the right bin, and put your own labels on your home bins, it is really effortless to recycle.  It also teaches your children from a very small age how to recycle which is excellent for the future of our planet and more so, excellent for their future.

To make it easy for you we have prepared 3 tables that you can print out and stick on your bins.  These will also help you to remember what is included in the public recycling bins.

BLUE – PLASTIC BOTTLES AND CONTAINERS                         BROWN – PAPER                                                              GREEN-GLASS

PAPER BASED DRINKS CONTAINERS                                        CARDBOARD PACKAGING & BOXES                         BOTTLES

WATER                                                                                                 NEWSPAPERS                                                                    VASES

MILK                                                                                                      LEAFLETS/PAPER                                                              CONTAINERS

SQUASH                                                                                               MAGAZINES

JUICE

WASHING LIQUID/POWDER/CONDITIONER

CLEANING MATERIALS

LIQUID SOAP/SHAMPOO

TINS

CANS

METAL PACKAGES

All you have to do now is stick these lists on your bins with the right couloured bags and you have no work to do yet your recycling duty is fulfilled.

We urge you to take part in saving the planet and teach your children to do the same it is for them we are doing this!

Lawyers in Famagusta – Review – Greek lessons

As it is now becoming a major issue for non-Cypriot citizens to learn Greek we did some research and found a great Greek speaking course for the East Coast residents.

It is Government run and the teacher is a lady called Maria who is absolutely charming and will put all you scaredy cats at ease.  The course is free of charge but you must have your yellow slip which you can apply for at the local immigration service.

The course starts beginning of November so you must hurry.  You can contact Maria on …….

The course actually runs for 3 years but each year starts November and completes in May which is excellent for the seasonal workers here in Cyprus.

This course is open to all persons over the age of 15. Maria is a qualified teacher and goes through every exercise very slowly in order for you to fully comprehend.  It is very nerve racking to start a new language and then to find a teacher who teaches at speed lightening is even worse as you tend just to pack up. Maria understands this and teaches at the pace suitable for you.

After signing up to this course and being the mature age that I am, after meeting Maria I am actually very excited to start my first lesson.

This course is run in every city in Cyprus and it is highly advised to start seriously thinking about learning Greek to be able to obtain a job here.  It also gives you more opportunities to really get to know the Greek people and their culture and make many more contact on the island.

The Greek people I feel will respect you a lot more if they can see you’re trying.

Once again If you would like further information call Maria on …….. It is also a lot of fun so give it a go and enhance your job prospects, knowledge and associates.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFIC E ON 29^TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Organic Coffee- Completed on 29^th October 2011.

Coffee is one of the biggest selling products after petrol I bet you did not know that?  Well we here in Cyprus knew that of course as coffee is a major part of our lives and our culture you could say!

Cypriots are one of the biggest drinkers of coffee! Yet we all know coffee is not good for us it is not good for our bodies and our and most definitely not good for our sleeping patterns.

So when I was invited to a coffee tasting evening I just had to go as I myself must drink at least 8 cups of coffee per day and no I do not sleep very well!!

I was very intrigued to hear it was a new organic coffee that has pure ingredients and is actually very good for you.  Ok so there had to be a catch but after tasting the coffee and listening to the presentation I was wonderfully surprised.

This coffee which is called ORGANO GOLD is 100% organic and tastes absolutely beautiful.  It goes down so smooth and it is totally healthy.  The ingredient is Ganoderma which is a mushroom grown in China.  I would never have believed it but for those who take coffee seriously this is the coffee for you.

Usually I choose which ever coffee is on offer of course with Nescafe being my favourite but I am totally hooked.

It is also exclusive in Cyprus and con not be found in the stores which also makes this new concept a profit making opportunity.  I feel once you have tasted this coffee you will want to go a step further and promote it yourself.

Check out the ORGANO website at www.organocoffeecompany.com and see for yourself.  Promoting products is not a usual practice of ours but this was a must as I absolutely love it and it is a new healthy way of drinking coffee and now we can do that without feeling guilty and it helps you sleep what could be better.  Give it a try and lets us know what you think.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 29^TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org

Property Lawyers on the East Coast Cyprus – Review – Cyprus Development

Larnaca new Marina and Port was due to be agreed and signed upon in midsummer 2011, we are now approaching winter and soon to be 2012 and still no deal as discussions are taking place between the government and investor group as yet there is no signed agreement 100% concrete!

Construction was due to begin the end of 2011 but with any luck it will now start some time in 2012.  It is reported the discussions are going at a fast pace to conclude all the details so as to get the Port and marina started as soon as possible.

But once agreed ….fingers crossed…Larnaca will then be the new in place to be and Limassol can take a back seat for a while.  Larnaca not only will benefit from the chicness of the marina lifestyle but has many up and coming developments such as chic and modern luxury 5* start hotels, Professional racing car track, Golf resorts, Theme Park it’s all in the pipe line for Larnaca of which we are very excited about.

However, we would like to hear some good news for the Famagusta area we here all the time about the projects in Nicosia, Larnaca and Limassol but what about us?  Many thanks for the new road in Paralimni but we really would like something exciting that we can shout about.

The construction at the Agia Napa Marina actually did get underway but what is happening there we are a little confused about and we are waiting to find out the progress and when or if this project will be completed. It is also the same story with the Paphos marina which is also on hold at the moment let’s get moving people we are wasting valuable time.

Cyprus on a whole is undergoing great development and many exciting projects are underway and on their way.  The Island of Cyprus is really gravitating towards chic, modern, very up to date yet at the same time still keeping the history and culture alive with its beautiful little towns and taverns and places of great importance and history making this island a place for everyone of all ages and interests we love it!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 21ST OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Legal Consultants in Cyprus – Review – Casino on East Coast

Well who would have thought it … Paphos is quick on the draw and looking to obtain licenses to hold casinos in their town!

One village in Paphos known as Kritou Terra was actually the only area in Cyprus ever to have a casino and they want the same building which has been preserved to some extent to be restored and reopened as a casino once again.  The village will be first in line to apply for a license.

Although the building has not been used as a casino since the 20th century it was a place where the affluent visited including kings and the wealthy Egyptians. The village would like to revive the area once again and have taken it a step further and are already talking with the ministries for the license.

The interest in the casinos is very high and the Paphos municipality are also on the list to apply for a licence hoping it will bring in major revenue and keep the Paphos area and all year round destination.

Hotel owners are very excited at this opportunity and hope to take advantage but it is not clear how many licences the government will grant or even if the legislation will go ahead, however, we feel with the islands current financial situation they really have no choice.

This type of venue would be ideal for the East coast who up until now has received very little in development. It would bring in employment to the area and maybe all year round visitors it really depends on the extent of the project. We should apply for a license by all means it’s a great opportunity and great asset to offer the tourists and would 100% bring in extra revenue.

We will continue to follow this issue and any progress being made.  Let us know your thoughts and how you feel on casinos and the government now discussing new legislation.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 22ND OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Karma Hotel Development

Due to the winter season being so slow here in Cyprus hotels are now thinking of ways to keep their establishments open all year round and turning them into residential resorts, with apartments for long term rental and for investment purposes.

This type of project is aimed more at the older generation than the young which is a great concept as it is the older generations who have the cash to splash so to speak.

One hotel imparticular in the area of Pernera on the East Coast has renovated their hotel with a certain number of apartments for sale and the rest for long term renters.  They have included facilities such as bowling grounds, fitness club, and bridge club and also have the added benefit of a woman’s health clinic and a doctor visiting on a certain day of the week.

There are dining and bar facilities and many other facilities and clubs and arranged trips making it a complete lifestyle with everything you need in your own back garden. You have everything and is also has the security aspect which is excellent in this day and age.

It is a fantastic idea and also brings all year round employment to an area which really is like a ghost town during the winter so to have all year round residents is a blessing.

Even though this is an excellent idea and we wish huge success to the karma hotel who has worked very hard in achieving the high level standard of living on offer we must reiterate the need for all year round promotion for the Cyprus Island.

This island does not have to stop once November come around, the sun is still shining, and the venues can still operate people still love to holiday in the winter months even more so to get away from their cold countries.  We must start campaigning and organising all year round Cyprus for all the coastal areas the East Coast imparticular which comes to a sudden holt it’s drastic when we have so much to offer.

Well done to the Karma hotel we need more projects like this.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 22ND OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Paralimni – Review – Greece

Even though Greece has been having protests for some time and they are very used to protesters in the streets they have now turned very ugly and things are getting out of control.

The most recent protest in Athens has seen one man dead and many injured and we are sure this is just the start of many more protests like this to come, as Greece brings in some very tough austerity measures that will hit the public harder when they are already down.

The clash between rivals groups erupted outside the house of parliament and a union official lost his life.  The tough austerity measures have been bought into action in order for Greece to receive EU and international financial support, but to gain this the public must suffer.

The house of parliament were waiting for the new austerity measures to be passed while the capital went on a 48 hour strike to protest against these measures and concluded with a loss of life.  It is a very sad state of affairs and the country is near collapse.

This is the same story in many countries and we are continuously reporting the same thing Cyprus is not far from this type of action we are sure as new austerity measures are now under discussion. However, no matter what point we get to and we believe the public should make a stand for their rights, violence is not a solution and we hope we do not endure this behaviour.

Many Greeks are coming from Athens to Cyprus for better opportunities but we are afraid we do not have that much better to offer at the moment.  Where this will end nobody knows we can only hope and pray for the best.

Our thoughts are with our sister land!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 22ND OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni lawyers – Review – Casinos in Republic of Cyprus

As we thought the governments retracted decision on allowing casinos in Cyprus is becoming the latest controversy in Cyprus.  Of course someone has something to say it is always the case in fact it is human nature.  As we previously reported the government are discussing legislation to allow casinos in the Republic of Cyprus.

This has come at a time when the economy needs all the help it can get.  This does not necessarily mean the President or government officials agree with casinos or like the idea, but we feel it is a case of doing all possible to keep the island afloat.  We also have to move with the times and casinos are an attraction and can also be quite an exciting and great night out, it does not have to become a deeply disturbing addiction and cause for major concern.

The Cyprus Social Problems action group believe that the casinos will cause a higher level of crime and mostly low income households will use the casinos to 1 get free food and drinks and 2 because they believe they will win major amounts of money.  They also believe that casinos do not bring in extra revenue and only makes individuals gambling addicts.

Casinos have been in action since the beginning of time and whether or not the casinos are allowed, gambling goes on everyday here in Cyprus behind closed doors. Maybe bringing gamblers out in public places allows for more control however, gamblers are gamblers no one can stop them that is a fact, so no matter of their surroundings whether it be in a box room or a luxurious casino makes no difference!

The island is facing its worst economic meltdown in history and all development we are sure will be very highly considered but also very thought through.  It must have taken a lot and we must be in quite a mess for such a retraction by the government on this issue!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 21ST OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org

Paralimni Lawyers – Review – Child abduction

We would like to bring to your attention the urgent matter of child abduction and human trafficking. We have already touched down on human trafficking and the fact that Cyprus is bottom of the list when it comes to implementing the law.

Now it seems child abduction which goes hand in hand with human trafficking is becoming quite apparent on our island and this is a very scary matter.

There have been reports of foreign nationals trying to take children from places such as busy hotels where children are wondering around during the day time and swimming in the pools having lots of fun. Parents naturally assume their children are safe but they are not and attempted abductions are taking place. This is also happening at schools at times when the children are finishing school and it is very chaotic.

These attempted abductions can take place anywhere, at the beach, at the parks and parents and staff must now be extra vigilant.

Parents must always keep their children in eye view and close proximity at all times and staff at such establishments that cater for children must be briefed on child abduction and always fully aware of strangers. Your children must also be safe and secure playing in their own gardens.

This is the age we are living in i am afraid and while Cyprus has always been a safe place, free movement between EU countries makes it easier for human trafficking.

Children are taken in order to be sold or exploited and as horrific as this sounds not everything in life is smooth sailing with sun, sea and sand.

The reality is that there are very bad people out there who can make a lot of money off small innocent children and this is a parent’s worst nightmare come true. So we must push this issue and come together and come together to make sure this does not happen to our children.

This is very serious and it would be very foolish to think it would never happen to you. Push the government to tighten the laws and push the people to be extra vigilant and keep an eye out at all times.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 20TH SEPTEMBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Famagusta lawyers -Review-Turkey disputing oil drilling

Cyprus is to start drilling for oil and gas on Monday 19th and matter between Cyprus and Turkey are now really staring to hot up. Greece has also stated there point of view if that any attacks happen on Cyprus it is the same as attacking Greece themselves.

The UN believe this is a good enough reason for peace talks between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Cyprus to hurry and find a solution so that all Cyprus united can make use and benefit from such resources. But it seems Turkey is set on causing trouble and complete isolation for themselves.

Cyprus has every right to be drilling and Turkey are obviously not listening to EU warnings and threatening that their warships are ready and they will open fire should drilling start.

So what do we do just sit here and wait for the bombs to start dropping on us? The public and the visitors to our island are starting to panic and want to know what is going on and are they safe?

Will Turkey listen to reason and is this a good enough reason for the 2 sides to find a solution. If Turkey does not step down from this ludicrous behavior it could certainly damage peace talks and their accession into the EU so we do hope for all sakes that this issue is sorted very quickly.

Preparations are already taking place at the Limassol port where the helicopter has arrived that will be transporting the workers to and from the oil rig so whether there is threat of war or not preparations are not being deterred by Turkeys threats.

The find of natural resources would benefit many this should not be obstructed in any way. The EU must put their foot down on this one as it seems no one can control Turkey they want to do the controlling!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 18TH SEPTEMBER 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Property Lawyers in Cyprus – Review- 5Km Sponsored walk for cancer relief

We are pleased to announce we are one of the proud sponsors of the 4th Annual 5Km walk in aid of Cancer Relief.

This is a cause very close to our hearts and we ask as many people as possible to join in the walk in aid of cancer relief. Many thousands upon thousands die of cancer or are diagnosed with cancer every year and while studies are progressing we must do all we can to make sure the funds are available for the research of this drastic and very sad decease.

This is a 5Km walk starting in Pernera and finishing Agia Triada, on Sunday 30th October which gives you plenty of time to get those walking shoes and put this date in your diary. There will be refreshments and entertainment to finish of a perfect day.

All the proceeds will be shared between the following:

Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society in Paralimni
Cyprus Association of Cancer Patients and Friends in Paralimni
The Nicosia Hospital Oncology Unit
Make a Wish Foundation for children with Cancer related illness

We have a lot of units to cover which is why we are making this plea for as many people to join in as possible. So tell your neighbors, your family and friends and come and have a great day out with us. It’s not such hard work it really is fun and you will meet many individuals from around the area.

If you do nothing on a Sunday except sit at home watch TV or go to the beach just give it a miss for 1 day that’s all we are asking and show your support to the adult and children who are not so lucky as us.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Contact our office directly for more information or call SUE 07768377/STAN 99015187

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 16TH SEPTEMBER 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Property legal Consultants in Paralimni – Review – Theme Park

So is the Disney style theme park to be or not to be? There were rumors a year or so ago that we were to have a Disney theme park situated in the Larnaca area that would be built on the border bringing both sides of the island together. However, rumors died down and no more was spoken.

Now we have news that the plans are back on the table and negotiations are taking place between the government and the Russian business group who are looking to fund this huge project. The theme park is thought to be being built in Pyla and will require some 40 hectares of government owned land along with some privately owned land.

Should this theme park go ahead it will also consist of a water park, luxury hotel, and many dining facilities. It will cost in the region of 800 million Euros so it will be a very large project indeed.

This kind of development will most definitely bring in all year round tourism and all year round employment this is exactly what Cyprus needs.

The theme park will be Greek mythology themed so not exactly the same as Disney world but yet still a huge project for Cyprus. We are not sure to get our hopes up just yet as we were excited previously and nothing came to fruition so we will stay calm for now and see what happens.

The Russian business group apparently has a meeting with the Cyprus finance Minister to discuss matters of the land so it is still very early days.

All we can say is fingers crossed we need this investment and many more like it to bring in all year round revenue and keep our island and our economy buzzing.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 19TH SEPTEMBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Cypriot Lawyer G Kouzali Review – Cyprus Guinness World Record
The wine festival in Limassol Cyprus turned out to be a spectacular and very popular event this year with many locals and tourists turning out for the event.

The wine festival has been running for 50 years now and this year was the 50th anniversary and how special it was.

During the festival there was a ceremony for the world Guinness record for the largest wine glass measuring 3m 37cm in height and 1m 53 cm in diameter… imagine that! Four bottles of wine from the biggest wine producers in Cyprus were poured into this gigantic glass to cement the world’s largest wine glass record.

Cyprus also holds to other Guinness world records for longest salsa dance and longest hasabiko dance. The wine festival has been a huge success this year and many tourists travelled form all over the island to visit and reported having a great day.

previous to this event Cyprus also held for the 5th year running the Cyprus Russia gala on the 10th September which was also a huge success visited by many prominent political and financial officials from both Russia and Cyprus.

Many famous performers preformed at the gala including Michalis Hatzigiannis who is a platinum artist many times over. Hundreds of visitors turned out for the gala and not only is this a great day out it is very important for the strong relations Cyprus and Russia enjoy and have done for many years.

It is really nice to hear about such events and how much the public and visitors to our island have enjoyed themselves. It makes a change to hear joyful stories instead of the bad news we are continuously hearing.

Cyprus holds many cultural events all year round in all areas and we will do our best to bring more update and detailed reports on these.

Congratulations to Cyprus for yet another Guinness world record fantastic news.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 20TH SEPTEMBER 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

The park will cover around 334 acres of land some of which will fall on state owned land.  However, the government are reported to have made agreements with local land owners involved in the development to swap land for the same value. Cyprus Property Lawyers – Review – Greek Theme Park

We researched a good while ago on a Disney style theme park that was rumoured to be being built in the Larnaca area however everything was very hush hush and we heard no more about this until recently.

It appears it’s all green lights for the theme park which will have a Greek theme and is to be created in Oroklini in the Larnaca area by a Russian investment group.

We feel this is really positive news for Cyprus.  Not only will the theme park bring in all year round tourism but also all year round employment totally the kind of investment Cyprus needs.

The Greek themed park will also have a water park, a luxury hotel which is definitely becoming the norm now in Cyprus and many dining venues very much like the Disney world but Greek style

How long will this project take we do not know as yet but the quicker the better for the Cyprus economy. The approximate cost will be around eight hundred million Euros which just goes to show how big a project this is!

If the government are agreeing to swap state owned land this means they also welcome the investment and rightly so.

The Cyprus Island is one of the most attractive holiday destinations in Europe also offering very attractive and safe residential and commercial investments.

We have top quality golf resorts, new modern and chic marinas in each town, luxury hotels popping up all over the island, professional racing track to be completed, this is just mentioning a few new developments there are many more and the Greek theme park is the cherry on the cake.

What more can we say….Cyprus is the place to be all year round!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 5TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni Legal Consultants – Review – Learning Greek

Ok brace yourself non-Cypriots we may now have to learn Greek to be able to get a job in Cyprus! This is trying to be made regulation that all non-Cypriots learn Greek and are not allowed to work unless they do.

This is to help the Cypriot residents obtain employment.

Can we just point out that firstly, the tourists that come here are Russian, German, Scandinavian, British, and Swiss etc?  They do not speak Greek and the majority only speak English other than their own language.

When you apply for jobs now you must have Russian and German this is standard.  Employees do not even ask for Greek as sad it sounds it does not help unless you are working in a predominantly Greek environment of which non-Cypriots do not apply anyway.

Secondly, and without prejudice the Cypriots do not want these menial jobs that pay little wage.  Cypriots spend a lot of time studying at collage and universities why on earth would they want to go and work in a bar etc they don’t want to so it really is not about Cypriots being unemployed. They get the jobs they want and what is left over goes to the non-Cypriots!

Thirdly, how do you intend to attract overseas investment when you are forcing people to speak Greek?

Many people who want to invest also want to know there are job and business prospects. For example it is a known fact that the Brits are absolutely rubbish at languages, yes some are lazy as it is an international language and made very easy for Brits but others are just not good at languages and never will be especially when they get older and Greek is one of the hardest languages to learn. So you will have lost the British market straight away if this comes into force.

Lastly, This Island sorry to say cannot survive without foreign investment and if it’s the case that foreigners are no longer wanted then joining the EU was totally a wrong move.

Out of respect we should try to learn Greek but not forced to learn Greek or basically leave the island or you will starve!  Maybe Cyprus will not be happy until the island is Cypriots only and then let’s see how far Cyprus will come?

Are you also going to tell the Russian Nationals which every possible issue is being made easy for them to come and invest in our island as we need their cash you cannot come if you do not learn Greek?  Do not think so!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 17TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni Lawyers – Review – Qatar Deal

Is it on is it not on, on off on off….it’s actually on…for now!  The Qatar deal is reported to be full steam ahead after quandaries by the press as to the status of the deal all seems well and rearing to go.

The Qataris will be visiting Cyprus in the very near future and all communication is back in full throng. This is great news.

There was apparently only a delay due to an army camp that needed to be removed and this was not achieved by the given time frame but that’s nothing new in Cyprus as we know, however, now this is organised we are back on track for a luxury new development being built near the Hilton hotel in Nicosia and is expected to bring in over 200 million Euros of revenue.

This is not the only deal going ahead, we have a Greek theme park to be built in Pyla Larnaca of which is already under discussion between the government and a Russian group of investors.  The discussions are over state land being swapped for private land which sounds very positive indeed.

We may also become home to one of the world’s largest statues being built in Limassol also by a Russian investment group. Plus many more the new marinas in each coastal town, new professional racing car track, luxury new hotels popping up all over the place.  It’s all go go go in Cyprus we just have to hope the government get their bottoms off their chairs and get things done properly!

Once the Qatar deal goes ahead we hope this will prompt further investment from Qatar and other rich countries which really should be the case if once again the government play their cards right and deal with such issues efficiently.

Cyprus is seeing great things happen currently and in the future and these are the issues we need to be magnifying to the international public.  Tourism is up the property markets will surely follow think positive and positive things will come to you!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 14TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Paralimni – review – Cyprus Business Networking

An old but new business networking system is growing very popular in Cyprus at the moment.   Business networking is the trend now.  It is not internet networking it is a more hands on approach to networking rather than an electronic way of networking.

Actual members of a company attend monthly meetings around the island at a designated place, time and date and come together and discuss the nature of their business and business issues. Each month they are asked to bring along and introduce other members to the group this is how it works.

Of course this helps to promote your business naturally, as each month more members are generated and as more members are generated the more people get to hear about your company.  It helps others to understand more about business in Cyprus and any negative and positive issues they feel are beneficial to others to discuss. It also gives you the chance to make trusted contacts and vice versa which is important when referring customers to companies.

It really is a great way of getting business known island wide and internationally depending on type of business.  The more people that join the more you can promote your business and the more they will promote you and you will promote, then it’s a never ending networking circle and growing bigger month by month.

The meetings take place in Paphos, Larnaca and Famagusta, there are refreshments and better still it is free you do not have to pay for this networking.

If you would like to know more about each meetings contact our office where we are able to supply you with specific times, dates and venues.

Don’t miss the chance to promote your business and also get to know other quality businesses. Word of mouth is always the best way to advertise and what better way to do this along with making friends and actually learning more about Cyprus business.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 13TH OCTOBER 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni lawyers – review – Mari Navy base inquiry – Completed on 17th September 2011.

Protesters are still outside the Presidents palace and marches are still being marched and candles still being lit for the individuals who passed away in the Mari navy base explosion.

Electric for most areas is back to normal but electric bills are set to rise to help pay for whose ever mistake it was.

Inquiries into the explosion seem to be another long drawn out process with blame being pointed at one person then another. This we expected as nothing is ever simple or truthful when it comes to such issues. However, the lawyer leading the public enquiry has given the end of September for his report to be completed and presented.

It appears no one is taking the blame for this saying they were not in a position to make such a decision so who was … the President? It has been reported that the explosive should have been analysed but because it was such a long process they were not! The security of the explosives should have been questioned but it was not!

What is wrong here and why were no questions asked and why is it so hard to actually come out and say who gave the order for the explosives to be stored at the Mari navy base and who on earth would be stupid enough to leave them in a big pile under the blazing sun. There is more than one guilty party here.

Even if the President gave orders to store them there someone must have been responsible for storing them safely and out of dangers way. Apparently the Cyprus government made it clear they did not want the explosives to stay in Cyprus and this was then changed a few days later.

What is really frustrating is that people took orders with no questions asked … from whom the president? Just come out and say it. If this person and that person were not authorised to make such a decision then the most highest in the hierarchy is the President?

We really do hope the public enquiry will turn up some truths but we do doubt if this is possible we are in Cyprus remember!!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 17TH SEPTEMBER 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni Lawyers – Review – Electric & Water issues – Completed on 5th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

It is ever more important for us to save energy due to the recent explosion Cyprus suffered. The recent explosion has also made it impossible for the island to keep receiving the same amount of water they have been, due to the desalination plants not having enough energy to keep all of them up and running. So not only are some areas receiving electric outages but the water cuts are creeping up on our door steps also.

Please see the list below how you can help your self and the island on a whole.

• Use fans and keep windows open to circulate the air instead of air conditioning, this will also save on your electric bills.

• Use steps instead of elevators, its also very good exercise.

• Companies should not use there illuminated signs to promote their at all.

• Turn all electric off from the main switches on the wall. When an appliance has a light showing this is still using electric.

• All kitchen and electrical appliances should be kept to a minimum. Use only during evening and night hours if possible. And full loads only for the washing machine and dishwashers.

• Use energy saving bulbs and switch off all main lights when not in use.

• Use a generator if possible.

If we want to keep some kind of normal routine the island must pull together and make these changes.

The building sector and other industries may be looking at taking an extra long holiday in August in order to save on electric and a 1pm – 4pm siesta may be implemented to also help but this is yet to be agreed as it is not sure this course of action would really make a difference.

Many changes are having to take place and everyone will have to sacrifice, this is a fact if we want to help our island get back to normal again.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 5TH AUGUST 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Cyprus Lawyers – Review – Cost of navy base explosion – Completed 4th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

The question still remains where is the money going to come from to repair the power plant that was damaged in the Limassol navy base explosion?

Recent views suggest the government cut the salaries and benefits of all governmental staff including the water board, the electric authority and the telecommunications for a few months and this would cover at least one hundred and fifty million Euros.

Obviously the public are very strongly against being forced to foot the bill this time and the recent protests outside the government palace show just how fed up the public are with everything that is going on here in Cyprus.

First of all is there no insurance in place? And secondly, those who are held accountable for the explosion should have a big part to play in this!

Why should we the public pay for absolutely everything? Our bills are already extortionate now and on par with the UK, we are having electric cuts which means households and businesses are not running properly which is fair enough we can pull together to help, but do not ask us to pay more on top of this. It would be the icing on the cake for the public and these friendly protests may not stay so friendly.

The public are calling out for a new government they are sick and tired of the islands financial status. With the cost of living becoming higher and the wages becoming lower, people can not afford to live here any more that goes for local Cypriots also.

The lack of true justice on the island is also an issue, there are no rules here and people get away with murder!

The government must make some drastic and right decisions on this matter and many others while their at it…..!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 4TH AUGUST 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Cyprus Property Lawyers – Review – State of Cyprus – Completed 28th July 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

The explosion which took place on the 11/7/11 has actually blown to pieces the Cyprus government also, with many cabinet members handing in and being asked to hand in their resignation and a whole cabinet restructure about to take place.

Many protestors have also camped outside the Presidents palace in a bid to make the President hand in his resignation also.

It is stormy waters for the President and government members at the moment. There were concerns over the Cyprus economy and what measures would be implemented to help the economy and with the explosion taking out a big chunk of the islands power, things are not looking good at all. The islands ratings have gone down and economic growth for 2011 and 2012 is as good as zero.

The damage from the explosion could take in the region of 2 billion Euros to fix and around 6 months and work ongoing before even just parts of the power plant are operational. Will this be paid by insurance cover or by the public we would like to know?

The President and the government are being slammed for the state of our island at the moment and the people want a government that will address all the main issues quickly and swiftly. Including a full investigation into the explosion, the countries deficit and the political problem that has been on the table for far too long.

The explosion on the navy base has shook the whole island and the government and has really put things into perspective and so urgent and drastic steps are needed to keep peace on the island otherwise conflicts are positively going to break out and this is a course of action the president knows must be avoided.

The foreseeable future is a very fragile one for Cyprus!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 28TH JULY 2010 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/
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Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Naval Base Investigation – Completed on 3rd August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Full investigations are taking place into the 11/7/11 explosion here in Cyprus on the Mari navy base that killed 13 navy officers and fire officers.

It has become evident that the containers of explosives that caused the devastation not only to the navy base but also to the very nearby power plant were not stored correctly, but in a big pile all together and left in the sun with no protection.

The explosives which were previously confiscated from a ship thought to be carrying the explosives to Gaza should have been stored in small piles separately and away from one another in case of fire issues and out of the way of the sun or heat.

The way the containers were stored all piled on top of one another in a big heap made it impossible for the fire-fighters to take control of the fire hence such a big and horrific explosion.

Another issue that has come to light is that the fire-fighters who were sent in to control the fire should not have been sent in at all, due to the way the explosives were stored as it was apparent there was no way to have taken control over the fire and certain fire officials should not have ordered this course of action.

There seems to be many issues being uncovered here and suspensions and arrests are being implemented. There are 2 investigations taking place simultaneously by the police and the public inquiry committee who have stated that not even the President will be exempt from investigation should the need arise.

Mistakes have been made here and some one has to pay for these innocent lives. Lets hope that nothing is covered up and those that caused this and even knew about this and did nothing are brought to justice.

The Cyprus Weekly quoted ‘how independent is the Public Inquiry Committee when they have been appointed by the cabinet and some of these cabinet members may be investigated’ could not have been put better!

When it comes to big matters such as this certain things are easily pushed under the carpet and who is really independent on this island anymore?

We hope for the people who lost their lives that dreadful day and for the families left behind justice really does prevail…would we hold our breaths on this happening…?

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 3RD AUGUST 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Famagusta – Review – Cyprus heat wave – Completed on 2nd August 2011.

We are experiencing another long drawn out heat wave and the temperatures are soaring. We must take extra care to keep cool and avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion. The most venerable groups are young children, the elderly, people with weight problems and illnesses and pregnant women.

Should you incur any of the below symptoms contact a doctor or visit your local hospital immediately:

• HEADACHES
• DIZZINESS
• NAUSEA
• FAINTNESS
• FEVER
• FAST HEARTBEAT
• BREATHING DIFFICULTIES
• CRAMPS

There are many ways to avoid sun stroke and heat exhaustion such as:

• Drinking lots of water
• Less exercise/activities
• More swimming and paddling
• Loose and light clothing
• Wearing hats
• Light bed sheets
• Sleeping closer to the floor
• Using fans
• Opening windows keeping room temperatures low
• Light eating
• Sitting in the shade
• Cold showers
• Frozen ice drinks
• Little or no alcohol
• Sunbathing only if necessary out of peak times

We all love the summer season but when temperatures are reaching so high it is very serious and people die every year of heat and sun stroke.

Look out for the person next to you also if they look like they have any of the above symptoms help them do not leave it for someone else to help, as they may do the same as you and walk on by and we can be talking life or death when it comes to heat and sun stroke!

Also we know how the people come on holiday to party and have fun and we may not all agree with this but if you see someone is intoxicated and could be in danger please do help them this is a common occurrence in the tourist and clubbing areas.

Help yourselves and others be safe this summer.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 2ND AUGUST 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Cyprus Explosion – Completed on 27th July 2011.

The recent navy base explosion in Cyprus on 11/7/11 which damaged one of the islands power stations has left many households and businesses with out electric at least twice a day for 2 hours at a time. These have been sporadic and unscheduled.

However, now the Electricity authorities have announced a scheduled plan for at least 22 areas that are going to be continuously affected for the foreseeable future until matters are resolved.

You can find this schedule on the EAC website although it is warned that the schedule may not be 100% accurate for the time being as many unforeseen issues may occur with this unprecedented disaster. We still must conserve energy in order to make the power cuts less frequent.

Cytanet and MTN are offering a text service to let you know a few minutes before your electric will be cut off. You can apply for this service by locating your area number on the EAC website and texting ON EAC to 8011 to Cytanet customers and MTN number still to be announced.

We have heard rumours that our electricity bills will now double in price and this is an issue we will not accept. The power stations are insured and will receive pay out for these catastrophes so please do not let these rumours become truth!

Concerns have been raised as to why a power station would be built right next to a navy base or vice versa when such issues could arise as per the explosion? This seems rather illogical and practically very unsafe! Hence the loss of 13 individuals and many injured.

Our prayers go out to the 13 who passed on this sad day of 11/711 they will always be remembered and our condolences to their families who have suffered such loss.

There are many unanswered questions that will continue to pop up and we for one will be in the queue asking them.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 27TH JULY 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Cyprus Property Lawyers – Review – Cyprus Economy – Completed on 8th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

The islands largest bank has written to the President asking for immediate action to be taken in order to recoup the countries finances before Cyprus must approach the European Union for a bailout package. Which in return would see serious effects on the country?

We are in serious times and an economic meltdown could easily happen if the right moves are not implemented. If Cyprus does not recoup finances we are in trouble of going bankrupt. This letter sent by the Bank of Cyprus with such urgency shows how deep we are into troubled waters.

And to make matters worse we do not even have a stable government to deal with these issues infact do we have any government left at all?

The President has a very hard job ahead of him and we do not envy his position not one little bit. Not only does he have the Mari navy base explosion on his shoulders but also a more than possible economic meltdown to deal with and who may I ask is helping him?

We are on the cliffs edge and this is a very scary time. The public are going to pay deeply that is a fact and there’s nothing we can do about it if we want to keep our island above water, but how do we pay when we have nothing left to pay with? The public are dried out from the already high cost of living!

The tourists may be back but the locals could be leaving pretty soon. If the government had acted quicker on many issues such as the title deed fiasco, governmental pay cuts which are just a couple to mention there’s a whole list we maybe would have dealt with this mess a lot better. However, leaving everything until tomorrow has now come and bitten them in the backside…!

If we approach the EU for a bailout the country can welcome higher VAT rates and taxes, job cuts and stricter spending, so hold on to your seatbelts Cyprus residents the road is about to get even more rockier!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 8TH AUGUST 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Legal Consultants in Cyprus – Review- Cyprus on a whole – Completed 12th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Cyprus has very serious problems at the moment and we are wondering how we get out of this mess. Where do we even start in trying to repair our once thriving and buzzing country that held such a strong economy for such a long time?

Let’s start with the cost of living! Everything has gone up what more can we say, food, petrol and energy yet wages are decreasing.

Taxes! Taxes are now looking at being increased to help the countries deficit. This means existing and new businesses will not actually benefit from a 10% tax policy which is one of Cyprus’s main attractions in enticing new business to the island. So promoting a vibrant business centre may not necessarily be true anymore?

Greece’s debt! Greece’s present debt situation also puts tremendous pressure on our economy due to the loans and trade. The banks hold more than 30 billion Euros in loans to Greece this sovereign debt will hurt us drastically.

11/7/11 Navy base explosion! This has shocked and rocked the country at a time that is so fragile already. It has caused political and economic issues on a major scale and recovery from this will take some time. The countries credit ratings were instantly set back.

The Government! There isn’t one anymore everyone has resigned. The government are in chaos as much as the country is in chaos.

Cyprus Peace talks…..Lets not even go there!

Stagnant Property Market! Our property market is in dire condition and on the verge of collapse on top of the already collapsed market we experienced in 2009 and have not yet recovered from. And due to many obvious reasons and now the above factors let’s face we really are doomed. The Title deed reform really hasn’t had such a positive effect that we thought it would either.

So where does that leave us and how or will it be fixed? All these issues at one time are sure enough a recipe for disaster. If our country and the people hold it together through all of this a celebration is certainly in order at the end of the tunnel. But for now it maybe safe to say we have a long dark journey ahead of us in getting to that celebration point!

Tell us your thoughts we would like to hear what the public are thinking at all that is going on at the moment.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 12TH AUGUST 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Paralimni Lawyers – Review – Cyprus Prices – Completed on 14th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

We recently reported on the extortionate prices that businesses were charging for products in the tourists areas, some of them with a mark up of 250%. This as we said is a very big mistake making visitors to the island not wanting to return and not only recent visitors but with word of mouth travelling so quickly it will deter other potential tourists to Cyprus.

Our office is in the process of writing a letter to the finance Minister in order to have this issue addressed. However, the Cyprus Tourism Organisation are also very concerned as they have now published a price list on their website for items that tourists are more than likely to buy.

The list gives the tourists a list of restaurants, cafes, hotel restaurants etc, and their prices so they can choose where they want to go and what they are prepared to pay. This is a really good idea and will hopefully stop those greedy business owners scaring away the tourism market as the tourists will now be more aware.

They should also list what the tourists should be paying for everyday essentials that they buy in the supermarkets, like bottled water, juice, etc and where they can buy it for this price.

The tourists season has been fantastic this year and instead of embracing this fact and luring visitors back small businesses in tourist areas have opted to make quick money by upping the prices as we said some by 250%.This has been the only complaint visitors have had this season and it is a complete shame for the island.

We reiterate lets hope the Cyprus lovers over look this issue and return next year, but maybe the damage has already been done and these greedy business owners will have no to blame but them selves!

To find the list devised by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation visit www.visitcyprus.biz

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 14TH AUGUST 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Cyprus – Review- Cyprus Austerity Measures- Completed 12th August 2011 - http://www.lawcyprus.org

Before the 11/7/11 explosion took place the government had prepared new austerity measures that the unions were not very happy with at all. The president is now looking to implement these new measures in quick time in order to try and prevent an EU bailout.

The credit rating agencies however, feel the measures are not enough and an EU bailout is inevitable. The president wanted to decrease the deficit to 4.0% in 2011 but the explosion set this back and concerns are growing that the new measures will not be enough and more has to be done.

The president feels sure that with the new measures in place the deficit will reach 0% by 2013 but credit rating agencies disagree and there are many people not happy with the new measures.

Civil servants will receive no pay rises and will have to contribute 3.0% every year for 3 years and any new staff will start on lower salaries and will pay higher social security payments. State worker who pay nothing towards a pension fund will now have to pay 4.0%. Any persons earning over 60,000 will now pay 35% tax instead of 30% tax. VAT will rise to 17% from 15%

Opposition parties and unions are not at all happy with this and want the measures readdressed. The credit rating agencies have already downgraded Cyprus having no faith the austerity packages will even be put in place, and with union action being threatened who actually knows. However, these measures have to be implemented whether the unions like it or not.

This is a very tricky situation the President can do what he feels is right for the country at the risk of social unrest or he keeps the people happy and lets the country fall apart…I think we must look forward to some social unrest that’s the choice any reasonable person would risk!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 12TH AUGUST 2011

Legal Consultants – Review – Cyprus airports and flight increases – Completed on 15th August 2011. http://www.lawcyprus.org/

We are very tired of writing about the negative issues going on in Cyprus and the media of late so we wanted to bring some enlightening and good news to our readers and the islands locals.

Paphos and Larnaca airport has reported an increase in passengers for the first half of 2011 compared to 2010. Passengers are up nearly 10% for Paphos airport and 5 % for Larnaca airport and it is expected that August will be even busier

This is certainly proof of the increase in tourism for the Cyprus Island compared to 2010. There is just under 200 flight carriers using the airports everyday, this is excellent news for Cyprus and a sure sign of things to come for the future.

Cyprus is one of the top favourites in the Mediterranean and Europe for UK, Russian, Scandinavian, German, Belgian and Swiss nationals, offering the most beautiful coastal lines and oceans and some thing to do for visitors of all ages.

There are many hotel package deals now offering flights, hotel and all inclusive and the Russians especially have taken full advantage of this.

UK tourism is also on the increase with some UK airports reporting a 20% increase in passengers to Cyprus…this is exactly what we want to hear.

Holidays4u which is a UK based company who specializes in flights to Turkey have sadly gone in to administration. While Turkey and other EU destinations may be some what cheaper to visit on holiday than Cyprus, it just goes to show that tourists do not mind paying a little extra for quality and beauty which is exactly what you will experience on your visit to Cyprus!

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 15TH AUGUST 2011.

Legal Consultants in Paralimni – Review- Water Shortage- Completed on 15th August 2011. - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Saving water is now not just an issue for the long term. It is very much an issue for the short term due to the recent explosion that took place on 11/7//11 at the Mari navy base.

The explosion which also damaged the islands largest power plant means that the islands water supply is in great danger.

The islands four desalination plants that supply the islands water, 2 of them have no power and 2 of them are only running at half their capacity. This is very grave news!

The island is also suffering from a heat wave at the moment with temperatures soaring so we could be looking at not only electric cuts but water cuts also.

This really is an issue we want to avoid as the last time the island experienced water shortage it really was unbearable.

It is now very important that the public stop wasting water. No more cleaning driveways and pavements etc and anyone seen using there hosepipes for such things should be reported. The government should impose instant fines to anyone being caught wasting water.

The explosion has affected many things on the island and everyday living is being forced to change until the power plant is up and running 100% which will definitely take some time.

We have reached a desperate point and the Cypriot people must pull together and help the country now more than ever and save energy and water.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 15TH AUGUST 2011

Cyprus lawyers – Review- Agia Sophia Church – Completed on 19th August 2011. - http://www.lawcyprus.org/

We have continually followed the issue of the ‘The Great Agia Sophia Church’ situated inIstanbulTurkey.  The Agia Sophia Church was used as a place of worship until the Turkish forced all Greek and Non-Turkish nationals to leave the country.

Since then the Church has been neglected and demoralized and used as a market place as sorts for vendors selling bric-a-brac, and used as a tourist attraction for visitors.

There have been protests and many letters written to the Turkish Prime Minister asking for the Church to be restored as a place of worship but still it has not been allowed.

However, an international congregation has appointed Greek lawyer Anchilleas Demetriades to take this matter to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and the court has now accepted the application.

This means that the Turkish Prime Minister must answer to the ECHR and give valid reasons as to why the Agia Sophia Church can not be used once again as a place of worship.  This will be very interesting!

Mr. Demetriades who has traveled to the Agia Sophia Church on a few occasions was recently denied access in toTurkeyand told to return back toAthens.  He believes this is because he has files the application to the ECHR.

We are very happy the ECHR will hear the case and we fully support the Agia Sophia Church becoming a place of worship once again.

The Agia Sophia Church is a prime example of the Muslim community not respecting any other religion accept their own.

The Muslim community fight to have new Mosques built in other countries but do not respect other places of worship by other religions.

They are not of a higher religion and all places of worship should be treated equally and with respect regardless of any political situations the country may be in.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 19TH AUGUST 2011

Lawyers in Paralimni – Review – Letter to President – Completed on 21st July 2011.

A letter has been sent to the Cyprus president voicing recommendations on how to help revive the property market and not to implement further taxes on business and property owners.

The letter was sent by the Cyprus land and building developers as concerns are rising over recent reports of a crisis tax lending being imposed on all businesses in an attempt to gain revenue to help the countries high deficit.

Also pointed out in the letter to the president is the fact that capital gains tax and transfer tax really should be lowered to help revive the markets and prevent fraudulent purchase property prices.

Compared to other EU countries Cyprus ranks in the highest for capital gain tax, and transfer tax.

This has caused many fraudulent claims of contract sale prices to appear in order for purchase to lower property tax bills.

We have to say we doubt very much these suggestions will have any impact on the president when the government are solely concentrating on making sure they recoup finances for the countries deficit, however, we agree with these suggestions whole heartedly.

Whether the president takes these suggestions in to account we will see, however, somewhere along the line if the government don’t tax business and lower property taxes, they have to recoup finances from somewhere else which we are positive would initially put greater pressure on the local publics pockets.

Although in the long run it would help the property markets thus bring in extra revenue.

But in the long run that is and maybe to long for the government to solve their problems?

We totally support this course of action from the Cyprus land and building developers association.

http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Cyprus Organized Rackets – Completed on 13th July 2011

Police presence is very evident in Agia Napa at the moment ad groups of police force are taking to the streets in order to crack down on local protection rackets.

The police are walking through the crowded streets in Agia Napa and standing around in groups and it is safe to say there presence is certainly felt.

Apparently, attacks on the police and intimidation to tourists are significantly rising by the local organized rackets that have no fear of anybody including the police.

These protection rackets run by local Cypriots are reported to organize all the security for the clubs on the east coast and are reported to also charge protection fees for business owners, who the business owners need protection against is a big question mark?

This is not confined to only Agia Napa there is organized rackets for every city in Cyprus and they have their turf wars the same as they do in other countries, however the rackets in the Famagusta district are making themselves a lot more visible of late, and the police force want to put a stop to this before the tourists are scared away and do not return to the island and also to let the rackets know they are not above the law.

The island is so small it is impossible for the police not to know what the gangs are doing on the island and this is certainly nothing new and has gone on for many years, obviously now gangs are getting more predominant the police want to stop this. When they should of put a stop to these gangs way before now!

The gangs and the police bring a certain feel to Agia Napa and it is quite intimidating to see both, so lets hope that the tourists are to busy to notice either, as we have enough problems to cope with.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 13TH JULY 2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Probate Lawyers in Cyprus – Review – Paying for Funerals in advance – Completed on 11th may 2011.

Pre paid funeral are becoming more and more popular due to the increase in funeral costs.

Individuals now tend to want to pay for this inevitable event in advance rather than leaving it to their loved ones to worry about.

Not only is the cost of a funeral a burden to your loved ones but at such an upsetting time it is hard for them to even think about making funeral arrangements.

This concept is even more beneficial for those living abroad away from their immediate family and god forbid anything happens to you who will know what to do?

A few years ago funeral costs were a few hundred pounds now they run in to the thousands mark. An average funeral can cost approximately two thousand pound depending on your requirements. Imagine your loved having to find this amount when you could have fixed this before hand.

There is also the matter of choosing how you would like your funeral to proceed. Which yes you can write this in your Will, but sometimes your Will is not found until later and some people forget to write funeral arrangements in.

There are a few companies popping up that offer this service but one in particular that we recommend is a company called Golden Leaves Funeral Plans. They offer a quality and top notch service for affordable prices.

You can contact our office for further information on Golden Leaves where a member of staff will be happy to help you. We also offer a professional Cyprus Will and probate service which is another important step you need to take.

Sort out your responsibilities today and take the burden off your loved ones they will thank you for this and know that you was thinking about them at the time of your arrangements were made.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 11TH MAY 2011.

Paralimni Lawyers – Review – Identity Theft – Completed on 10th May 2011.

We all praise social Media for networking and helping us stay in contact with friends and promoting out businesses. But little do we know about who is actually getting in to out site ands stealing our information.

Face book is just one example. It has recently been reported that face book has experienced millions of identity thefts.

It really is not that hard for computer hackers to get into your face book. People sometimes make it easier for them by inventing passwords relating to there name or email address.

Many people tend to put on there page as much information as possible with the intentions of attracting business or friends. These hackers can take your birth date and your name and find out many things about you giving them a full identity to go and use.

Then later you start getting credit bills through your door, or you go to the shops and banks and find out your credit is very bad due to the hackers using your name.

Even your social insurance number can be found by just your name and birth date.
This is very common in the USA and affects 15 million people each year.

While social media is an excellent way to network and promote you must NEVER put important information on your page, like date of birth or address, even your area.

Make sure your passwords are as hard as possible, always make sure you have anti virus on your computer and never give any personal information out on wireless networks, they are defiantly not protected. Also refrain from opening unknown emails.

You just never know who is watching what you are doing in order to steal your identity. Always be aware of this when you are instant chatting also.

Be careful and protected. Check your profile and page today and change your passwords so you don’t get caught out.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 10TH MAY 2011.

Cyprus Legal Consultants – Analyzes- Cyprus Economy – Completed 9th May 2011.

So maybe things have to get drastically worse before they can get better if that is at all possible.

Unemployment has risen just over 5% on the same time last year, and there is a rise in international nationals signing in at the labour office by just under 1,300 up on last years figures for this time of year.

Property sales are down compared to this time last year and is actually thought to be the worst decrease for this period in a couple of years.

Applications deposited at the lead registry office have dropped by approximately 20% on this time last year.

Larnaca and Famagusta are the worst hit area, which does not surprise us as we seem to be getting less new developments than the rest of the island. Of course Limassol is the top runner with the least decrease in sales and deposited applications.

This is defiantly not welcomed news when reportedly leaks have emerged that the countries deficit could run up to 6%.

Wow….. What can we say?

We can only hang on to the possibilities that the summer season 2011 is going to be a good one… A little different but a good one all the same, and hope this persuades the new international visitors to come back and invest in our island.

2011 will see tourism rise but 2012-2013 will definitely we feel be the years to see the Cyprus property markets stabilise! The only good aspect of all this is that house prices are continually falling so for buyers it is a perfect time.

We will go as far to say these who do buy now will certainly miss out on a bargain of a lifetime.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 9TH MAY 2011.

Property Lawyers in Famagusta – Review – Culture Capital 2017 – Completed on 12th May 2011.

Paphos are going all out in order to win their application for European Culture Capital 2017.

The 2010 crown was previously awarded to Istanbul in Turkey

So each town in Cyprus is now aiming for the title. Paphos are really pushing the boat out and asking non-Cypriot residents to take part in a questionnaire helping the towns’ officials to gain insight on the towns strengths and weaknesses on different aspects of the towns’ culture, diversity and communities.

The European Culture Capital concept was originally initiated by Greece’s Culture Minister in 1985 with Athens claiming the very first title and has exceeded popularity ever since then.

It is really a special event as it shows the whole world what your country has to offer not just on culture but as a whole. Events and celebrations take place all year long which obviously brings in world wide visitors that maybe would have usually visited Cyprus, thus, bringing major amounts of tourism revenue.

So we have Paphos, Limassol and Nicosia in the running all having made applications for the title and all doing what they can to win the title.

So looking at it from another point of view it could also be seen as a clean up for these towns and keeping them on their toes as they are taking a good look at their where improvements need to be made and will no doubt make them if they want to win the crown. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that at all!

It is a big shame we do not see Famagusta on the list of towns to have made an application. We feel we have a lot to offer in all areas required.

Tells us your views on this issue and who you feel deserves to win the crown.

PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 12TH MAY 2011.

ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗ ΤΗΣ G. KOUZALIS LLC.ΣΤΙΣ 28/06/2011 http://www.lawcyprus.org

ΠΟΥ ΕΙΝΑΙ Ο ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΜΟΣ ΜΑΣ, ΠΟΥ ΕΙΝΑΙ Η ΠΑΡΑΔΟΣΗ ΜΑΣ, ΠΟΥ ΕΙΝΑΙ Η ΓΛΩΣΣΑ ΜΑΣ ;

Η γλώσσα δεν είναι έναν απλό εργαλείο, είναι ο πολιτισμός μας, είναι η ιστορία μας, είναι η σκέψη μας, είναι η νοοτροπία μας, είναι η ταυτότητα μας. Πάνω από όλα η γλώσσα είναι αξία. Τα τελευταία χρόνια παρατηρείται έντονα το φαινόμενο των greeklish. Η νέα γενιά γράφει με αγγλικούς χαρακτήρες και μιλά χρησιμοποιώντας αγγλικό λεξιλόγιο. Με αυτό τον τρόπο ξεχάσαμε την ελληνική μας γλώσσα, ξεχάσαμε μια γλώσσα που πίσω της κρύβετε ολόκληρη ιστορία. Μια γλώσσα όπου γέννησε την δημοκρατία και είναι μητέρα πολλών άλλων γλωσσών. Δεν μπορούμε τόσο εύκολα να ξεχνούμε τον πολιτισμό μας και την ταυτότητα μας για την τάση την μόδας. Είναι παράλογο να ακολουθούμε έναν άλλο πολιτισμό για τον οποίο δεν γνωρίζουμε τίποτα αλλά αντιθέτως μας κάνει να χάνουμε τις αξίες μας.

Τέτοια παραδείγματα είναι χιλιάδες στην καθημερινή μας ζωή. Ακόμη και στην χώρα την οποία ζούμε είμαστε αναγκασμένοι να μιλάμε αγγλικά στις διάφορες υπηρεσίες γιατί το προσωπικό δεν γνωρίζει ελληνικά. Αυτό είναι απαράδεχτο!!!! Δεν γίνετε να έρχονται αλλοδαποί στην χώρα μας και να ζητούν δουλεία χωρίς να γνωρίζουν την μητρική μας γλώσσα και εμείς να τους προσλαμβάνουμε. Επίσης οι τουρίστες αγαπούν την Κύπρο, αγαπούν την φιλοξενία μας, αγαπούν την κουλτούρα μας. Ας είμαστε παράδειγμα προς μίμηση και να φροντίσουμε οι ξένοι εργαζόμενοι της Κύπρου να μάθουν αρκετά καλά την Ελληνική γλώσσα ώστε να εξαλείψουμε το φαινόμενο αυτό.  Είναι σημαντικό να γνωρίζουμε την αγγλική γλώσσα αλλά πάνω από όλα είναι χρέος όλων μας να μιλάμε άπταιστα την ελληνική γλώσσα. Η νέα γενιά έχει φτάσει στο σημείο να μιλά καλύτερα την αγγλική γλώσσα παρά την ελληνική.

Υπάρχει μεγάλο θέμα στην ποιότητα της γλώσσας μας και αυτό επηρεάζει και την ποιότητα στην παιδεία μας. Η ελληνική γλώσσα είναι μια από τις μακρότερες σε ιστορία στον κόσμο και δεν γίνετε από την αρχαία ελληνική γλώσσα να καταλήξουμε στα greeklish.

Δημοσιεύτηκε στις 28/06/2011 από την  G. KOUZALIS LLC. http://www.lawcyprus.org

ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΕΤΑΙΡΕΙΑΣ G. KOUZALIS LLC ΣΤΙΣ 28/06/2011  http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Ακόμη και οι Τουρκοκύπριοι αδελφοί μας αντιδρούν στην θέα των ελληνοκυπριακών νεκροταφείων στην κατεχόμενη Κύπρο μας. Συγκεκριμένα οι Τουρκοκύπριοι του Καλού Χωριού της Κυθρέας δήλωσαν ‘ Ούτε στη θρησκεία μας, ούτε στον ανθρωπισμό μας ταιριάζει ’ μιλώντας για το νεκροταφείο του χωριού. Βαθύτατα συγκινημένοι ζητούν από τους αρμόδιους να δείξουν ενδιαφέρον για την κατάσταση του ελληνοκυπριακού νεκροταφείου του χωριού. Οι κάτοικοι αντιδρούν λόγω την λυπητερής εικόνας που αντικρίζουν καθημερινά στο νεκροταφείο. Συγκεκριμένα περιγράφουν ότι υπάρχουν γερμένοι σταυροί στους γεμάτους με χόρτα τάφους, οι τοίχοι περίφραξης έχουν καταρρεύσει, τα μάρμαρα των τάφων έχουν σπάσει και εκτός αυτών φορτηγά αδειάζουν μπάζα στο κοιμητήριο.

Οι κάτοικοι του κατεχόμενου Καλού Χωριού Κυθρέας ντρέπονται για την κατάσταση αυτή και καλούν τους αρμόδιους να προχωρήσουν άμεσα στην αποκατάσταση του κοιμητηρίου. Δακρύζουν μαζί με τους Ελληνοκύπριους που πηγαίνουν στο κατεχόμενο χωριό και επισκέπτονται το νεκροταφείο όπου βρίσκονται οι συγγενείς και οι φίλοι τους. Θέλουμε να τονίσουμε και να ευχαριστήσουμε το ενδιαφέρον τον Τουρκοκύπριων αδελφών μας που σέβονται εμάς αλλά και την θρησκεία μας.

Δημοσιεύτηκε στις 28/06/2011 από την  G. KOUZALIS LLC.  http://www.lawcyprus.org/

ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΕΤΑΙΡΕΙΑΣ G. KOUZALIS LLC ΣΤΙΣ 28/06/2011  http://www.lawcyprus.org/

Με την Τούρκικη εισβολή του 1974 η πολιτιστική κληρονομιά της Κύπρου υπέστη βανδαλισμούς και συλήσεις και παρόλες τις ρητές συμβατικές διατάξεις για την προστασία της πολιτιστικής κληρονομιάς, η Τουρκία αγνοεί και επανειλημμένα παραβιάζει τους δεσμευτικούς κανόνες των διεθνών συμβάσεων. Η έκταση των καταστροφών είναι μεγάλη και σε πολλές περιπτώσεις μη αναστρέψιμη. Τα μουσεία στον Βορρά έχουν λεηλατηθεί όπως και πολλές πλούσιες ιδιωτικές συλλογές αρχαιοτήτων. Εκκλησίες έχουν βανδαλιστεί , έχουν κλαπεί συστηματικά εκκλησιαστικές εικόνες και εκκλησιαστικά σκεύη, τοιχογραφίες έχουν αποτοιχιστεί και έχουν αφαιρεθεί ψηφιδωτά δάπεδα. Πολλά από τα αντικείμενα αυτά εντοπίστηκαν σε αγορές της Ευρώπης και εμφανίζονται καθημερινά σε δημοπρασίες.

Η μεγαλύτερες ίσως καταστροφές παρατηρούνται στις εκκλησίες του κατεχόμενου τμήματος του νησιού. Κάποια εκκλησιαστικά κτίρια καταστράφηκαν εξ ολοκλήρου, άλλα βανδαλίστηκαν, ενώ κάποια χρησιμοποιούνται μέχρι και σήμερα ως στάβλοι, τζαμιά, στρατιωτικές εγκαταστάσεις, νεκροτομεία, ορνιθώνες, σιταποθήκες και στρατόπεδα. Αυτό είναι το αποτέλεσμα της συνεχιζόμενης εκούσιας καταστροφής κάθε χριστιανικού στοιχείου στα κατεχόμενα με κύριο υπαίτιο την Τουρκία, η οποία 37 χρόνια μετά την εισβολή της στην Κύπρο επιθυμεί να καταστεί πλήρες μέλος της Ευρωπαϊκής Ενωσης την ίδια στιγμή που με οργανωμένες επιχειρήσεις στα κατεχόμενα κατακερματίζει την ευρωπαϊκή αλλά και διεθνή πολιτιστική κληρονομιά μαζί και τις αρχές και τις αξίες πάνω στις οποίες θεμελιώθηκε η ενωμένη Ευρώπη.

Με δαπάνη της Ιεράς Μονής Κύκκου και επικεφαλή τον κ. Χοτζάκογλου έγινε μία έρευνα όπου κάλυψε 550 εκκλησίες στα κατεχόμενα, οι 50 περίπου από αυτές έχουν μετατραπεί σε στρατόπεδα. Υπάρχουν όμως και εκκλησίες οι οποίες λειτουργούνται από τους Ελληνοκύπριους εγκλωβισμένους στο Ριζοκάρπασο, στη Γιαλούσα, στην Αγία Τριάδα, στον Άγιο Συνέσιο και στον Απόστολο Ανδρέα. Η έρευνα για αποτύπωση της καταστροφής της θρησκευτικής μας κληρονομιάς στα κατεχόμενα οδήγησε τον κ. Χοτζάκογλου και την ομάδα των συνεργατών του στη διαπίστωση πως οι εκκλησίες που προβάλλονται από το κατοχικό καθεστώς, ως «καλά διατηρημένες», όπως αυτές του Αρχαγγέλου Μιχαήλ στην Κερύνεια, του Αγιου Μάμαντος στη Μόρφου, της Παναγίας στο Τρίκωμο και του Αποστόλου Βαρνάβα στην Αμμόχωστο, έχουν μετατραπεί σε μουσεία για να εξυπηρετούν, κυρίως, την τουριστική βιομηχανία, αλλά και να δίνουν την ψευδή εντύπωση ότι όλοι οι χριστιανικοί ναοί είναι σε καλή κατάσταση.

Ο Ελληνας αρχαιολόγος αναφέρθηκε σε «οργανωμένη προσπάθεια από τον τουρκικό στρατό» βασιζόμενος σε μαρτυρίες από τα κατεχόμενα ότι στρατιώτες πριόνιζαν κομμάτι – κομμάτι τα εικονοστάσια των εκκλησιών, μεταφέροντάς τα προς άγνωστη κατεύθυνση, με πιθανή τελική κατάληξη τα χέρια αρχαιοκάπηλων.
Η λεπτομερειακή καταγραφή των εκκλησιών από την ομάδα υπό τον Χαράλαμπο Χοτζάκογλου κατέληξε στο συμπέρασμα ότι αγνοούνται από τις κατεχόμενες εκκλησίας μας 15 με 20 χιλιάδες εικόνες ανυπολόγιστης αρχαιολογικής αξίας ενώ οι ίδιες οι εκκλησίες έχουν μετατραπεί σε στάβλους, σιταποθήκες, ορνιθώνες, νυχτερινά κέντρα, βιβλιοθήκες και πολιτιστικά κέντρα.

Ο Ιερός Ναός και το Μοναστήρι της Αγίας Αναστασίας στη Λάπηθο της Κερύνειας έχουν μετατραπεί σε πολυτελές ξενοδοχειακό συγκρότημα με τα κελιά της Μονής να έχουν διαμορφωθεί σε διαμερίσματα, ο περίβολος σε πισίνα και στη μέση αυτών η εκκλησία που, από χώρος προσευχής, έγινε αξιοθέατο για παραθεριστές.
Εκκλησίες όπως της Αχειροποιήτου στη Λάμπουσα και του Αγίου Παντελεήμονα στη Μύρτου μετατράπηκαν σε στρατόπεδα. Στην περίπτωση του Μοναστηρίου του Αγίου Παντελεήμονα μετά τη χρήση του για ένα μεγάλο χρονικό διάστημα ως κατάλυμα για Τούρκους στρατιώτες τώρα χρησιμοποιείται ως αποθήκη καυσίμων.
Ωστόσο, μια από τις πιο συγκλονιστικές περιπτώσεις που ο κ. Χοτζάκογλου συνάντησε ήταν αυτή της μικρής μεσαιωνικής εκκλησίας του Σωτήρος στο χωριό Χρυσηλιού της Μόρφου, η οποία μετατράπηκε σε νεκροτομείο της περιοχής.
«Πάνω στην Αγία Τράπεζα βάζουν τους νεκρούς. Εκεί τους πλένουν και τους ετοιμάζουν. Εκεί έχουν και τα φέρετρα με τους νεκρούς. Ηταν ανατριχιαστικό», είπε ο κ. Χοτζάκογλου. Από τις δεκάδες περιπτώσεις σύλησης και καταστροφής είναι και οι εκκλησίες του Αγίου Γεωργίου του Εξορινού στην Αμμόχωστο, που έχει μετατραπεί σε θέατρο και του Αγίου Λουκά στη Λάπηθο που λειτουργεί ως χοροδιδασκαλείο.

Η εικόνα στα κατεχόμενα είναι τραγική και το γεγονός αυτό είναι αδιαμφισβήτητο από όλους μας. Όπως αναφέρει ο κ. Χοτζάκογλου η Κυπριακή Δημοκρατία σε συνεργασία με το Τμήμα Αρχαιοτήτων έχει εκπονήσει πρόγραμμα αναστύλωσης των τζαμιών στα ελεύθερα εδάφη τα οποία και συντηρούνται βάσει της πολιτικής πρακτικής που λέει «ότι σεβόμαστε τα θρησκευτικά μνημεία των άλλων θρησκευτικών ομάδων και τα αναστηλώνουμε, και αυτό ζητούμε και εμείς για τα δικά μας από τους άλλους». Ένα από τα βασικά ανθρώπινα δικαιώματα είναι και ο σεβασμός της θρησκευτικής ελευθερίας του κάθε ανθρώπου και δεν πρέπει να αποτελεί απαίτηση από εμάς τους Ελληνοκύπριους αλλά υποχρέωση της Τουρκίας και της Τ/Κ ηγεσίας, ότι πράττουμε εμείς για τα τζαμιά τους στις ελεύθερες περιοχές να γίνει το ίδιο και με τις εκκλησίας μας στα κατεχόμενα. Η Ελληνοκυπριακή πλευρά κάνει τα πάντα για την συντήρηση των τουρκοκυπριακών Ιερών μνημείων και κοιμητηρίων. Παρόλα αυτά φαίνεται  όμως ότι και οι Τουρκοκύπριοι φίλοι μας επιθυμούν να φτιάξουν τα μνημεία μας στην κατεχόμενη Κύπρο αλλά οι Τούρκικες Δυνάμεις στρατών και η Τούρκικη ηγεσία δεν επιτρέπουν στους Τουρκοκύπριους να κάνουν αυτά που οι ίδιοι επιθυμούν.

Όπως γίνεται στην ελεύθερη Κύπρο έτσι θέλουμε να γίνει και στην κατεχόμενη, θέλουμε να λύσουμε το θρησκευτικό θέμα που αφορά την πολιτιστική κληρονομιά μας που δεν είναι μόνο θέμα της Κύπρου αλλά της Ευρώπης και του κόσμου.

Δημοσιεύτηκε στις 28/06/2011 από την  G. KOUZALIS LLC.  http://www.lawcyprus.org/