**Lifeguard Shortages Persist at Cyprus Beaches**
Lifeguard shortages continue to pose significant challenges at beaches across Cyprus, particularly in the coastal cities of Limassol and Paphos. The situation has raised safety concerns among local authorities and beachgoers alike, as the Ministry of the Interior reported ongoing difficulties in filling approximately 380 lifeguard positions that are jointly funded by the ministry and local municipalities.
Andreas Karvounis, an officer with the ministry’s beach safety unit, highlighted the recurring staffing issues during an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). He noted that the shortage of lifeguards is a persistent problem, especially during the peak summer months when beach attendance increases.
Local authorities have proposed a controversial solution to the staffing crisis: reducing the number of lifeguards stationed at certain towers from two to one. However, Karvounis stated that such a measure could only be implemented if it is determined that safety requirements can still be met under these new conditions. This proposal has sparked debate among safety officials and lifeguard representatives.
Polis Pallikaros, president of the Cyprus Lifeguard Federation, expressed strong opposition to the idea of reducing lifeguard coverage. He emphasized that such a move would contradict international safety standards and could significantly hinder rescue operations. Pallikaros called for an increase in the number of permanent and 10-month lifeguard positions across the island, pointing out that the need for lifeguards is particularly acute in Limassol and Paphos.
Currently, the Famagusta district boasts 47 permanent lifeguard positions, while Paphos has only three. Pallikaros indicated that Paphos requires approximately 110 lifeguards annually to meet seasonal demand, and efforts are underway to recruit the necessary personnel. However, he acknowledged that filling these vacancies remains a challenge.
In addition to staffing shortages, Pallikaros raised concerns about equipment deficiencies that further complicate lifeguard operations. He noted that many beaches lack essential motorized rescue vehicles, such as jet skis, which are crucial for enabling lifeguards to respond quickly to emergencies and cover larger areas. The absence of such equipment could compromise the safety of beachgoers.
The situation is particularly dire along the Governor’s Beach coastline, where Limassol district lifeguard officer Sakis Nikolaou reported that there is currently no lifeguard coverage. Furthermore, only one lifeguard tower is operational along Lady’s Mile beach, which is located in the British bases area. These gaps in coverage have prompted increased scrutiny and concern from both local officials and the public.
The trade union Oekdy-Sek has also voiced its alarm over the ongoing lifeguard shortages, labeling the situation as a serious safety risk for beachgoers. In a statement, the union stressed that the need for adequate staffing is not being fully recognized by all stakeholders. They highlighted that a single lifeguard is often insufficient to respond effectively to serious emergencies, as a second lifeguard is typically needed to alert emergency services, retrieve necessary equipment such as defibrillators, and follow established rescue protocols.
As Cyprus continues to attract tourists and locals to its beaches, the issue of lifeguard shortages remains a pressing concern. Authorities are urged to take immediate action to address the staffing gaps and ensure that safety standards are upheld. Without adequate lifeguard coverage, the safety of beachgoers could be compromised, leading to potentially tragic consequences.
In conclusion, the ongoing lifeguard shortages at Cyprus beaches underscore the need for a comprehensive strategy to recruit and retain qualified personnel. As the summer season approaches, local authorities and the Ministry of the Interior must collaborate to find effective solutions that prioritize the safety of all beachgoers.