**Limassol Municipality Responds to Audit Office Report, Highlights Previous Administration's Role**
Limassol, Cyprus – The Limassol municipality has issued a statement in response to the recent report from the Audit Office, indicating that it is currently reviewing all issues raised in the document. The municipality emphasized that a significant portion of the findings pertains to the period before the current administration took office.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the municipality expressed its respect for the Audit Office's work, describing the recommendations as valuable tools for enhancing operational efficiency and promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance within the municipality.
The municipality pointed out that the majority of the findings in the report relate to the years between 2017 and 2024, a timeframe that encompasses the tenure of previous administrations. This assertion aims to clarify that many of the issues highlighted are not reflective of the current municipal authority's practices.
The municipality committed to thoroughly examining all issues identified in the report to ensure that necessary corrective measures are implemented and that compliance with the Audit Office's recommendations is achieved. This proactive approach aims to address any shortcomings and improve municipal operations moving forward.
One of the key areas addressed in the report pertains to the placement of workers in permanent and pensionable positions. The municipality stated that these positions had received approval from the relevant ministry, indicating that the process followed proper protocols. Additionally, it asserted that there has been full compliance regarding the renaming of positions and the allocation of personal scales.
Regarding service contracts, the municipality acknowledged a practice that had been identified by Auditor General Andreas Papaconstantinou but noted that this practice has since been discontinued. The municipality also addressed concerns related to personal benefits for staff, clarifying that these benefits are guaranteed through collective agreements that the municipality is obligated to implement.
Another significant point raised in the report concerns overtime work. The municipality recognized the necessity for action in this area and stated that measures previously outlined in its correspondence with the Audit Office are currently being initiated. The municipality has already provided clarifications for most observations noted in the report, and these responses have been included in the final document.
In conclusion, the Limassol municipality reaffirms its commitment to cooperating with the Audit Office and utilizing its suggestions to enhance municipal operations. The statement reflects a willingness to engage constructively with the findings and to make necessary adjustments to improve governance and service delivery to the community.
As the municipality continues its review process, it remains focused on ensuring that all recommendations are addressed and that the local administration operates with the highest standards of accountability and transparency.