**MPs Raise Alarm Over Turkish Cypriot Property Reform**
On Tuesday, members of the House refugees committee convened to discuss critical issues surrounding the government's Ktizo housing scheme for refugees and the legislative framework governing Turkish Cypriot properties. The meeting, chaired by Akel MP Nikos Kettiros, highlighted ongoing delays in the Ktizo program, particularly concerning grants for existing apartment buildings within government refugee settlements and the financing arrangements for beneficiaries.
Kettiros reported that the committee had received updates regarding funding considerations, which were set to be reviewed by the agency's board on July 9 before being forwarded to the finance ministry. He expressed optimism that the funding process would be expedited, enabling beneficiaries to join the Ktizo scheme more swiftly. To date, €4.3 million has been allocated for rent subsidies, with beneficiaries expected to contribute approximately €6 million, although the final figures are still pending confirmation.
A significant concern raised during the discussions was public safety. Kettiros pointed out that none of the apartment blocks designated for demolition had been secured or demolished, leading to repeated break-ins and theft of materials from these structures. He specifically mentioned several apartment buildings in Larnaca that have been illegally occupied by squatters, some of which were earmarked for demolition as far back as 15 years ago.
The committee also reviewed the operational effectiveness of the legislative framework introduced in July 2025, which aims to manage Turkish Cypriot properties. Kettiros noted that despite the establishment of objective criteria and a points-based allocation system, weaknesses had surfaced during its implementation. He emphasized that both the committee and the relevant service were in favor of making corrective changes to improve the framework.
Anthi Lakkotrypi, director of the Turkish Cypriot property management service, stated that the new framework was designed to enhance transparency, meritocracy, and equality in property allocations. Since the legislation was enacted, four allocation rounds have taken place, resulting in the concession of 37 residences, 71 commercial premises, open spaces, and 177 agricultural plots. Lakkotrypi also reported that inspections had led to the recovery of 79 properties, with an additional 130 cases currently progressing through the courts. She mentioned that some shortcomings identified during implementation had already been addressed through internal circulars, with further amendments planned to clarify ongoing issues.
Members from various political parties expressed their concerns regarding the current state of both the Ktizo scheme and the Turkish Cypriot property management framework. Disy MP George Lysandrides highlighted that serious delays persist three years after the Ktizo scheme was launched, urging for an acceleration of procedures to benefit those in need. Diko MP Zacharias Koulias questioned the effectiveness of the program, noting that despite significant expenditures on rent subsidies, only two apartment buildings had been completed, suggesting a reassessment of the scheme is necessary.
As discussions continue, the committee's focus remains on ensuring that the Ktizo housing scheme is improved and that the legislative framework governing Turkish Cypriot properties is effectively implemented to serve the needs of refugees and the wider community.