MEPs point out public transport and traffic problem in Cyprus

Members of the European Parliament Transport Committee visiting Cyprus at the invitation of Cypriot MEP Ioannis Kasoulides, have pointed out the lack of public transport and the traffic congestion problem in Cyprus.
The MEPs said that efforts should focus on creating bicycle lanes and sidewalks because ”roads are also for people, not only for cars.”
Speaking at a press conference in Nicosia, the MEPs referred to the meeting they had earlier on Wednesday with Ministry’s of Communications and Works Permanent Secretary Makis Constantinides, who briefed them on the Ministry’s plans concerning public transport.
Head of the delegation, German MEP of the European People’s Party Georg Jarzembowski said that the House of Representatives and other authorities should support the efforts and plans of the Ministry in order to solve the traffic problem.
Kasoulides said the MEPs focused on the traffic problem and have noted a serious lack in adequate public transport.
”In particular the transportation problem we have in Cyprus, the traffic congestion, the lack of public transport, the fact that in Cyprus we do not have bus lanes, bicycle lanes and the necessary infrastructure, this country cannot neglect anymore,” he said, adding that encouragement must be given in order to solve the problem.
Jarzembowski said the Ministry’s plans are ”very good” and pointed out that although ”in the beginning it will be expensive,” it will be worth the cost and will furthermore be co-financed by the EU.
”When you have it and the people see that is reliable, frequent and good quality, more and more people will use it,” he said.
The MEPs spoke about their own experience abroad and said that parking places could be created around the town centres from where the citizens can either walk or rent bicycles, and furthermore mentioned the high percentage of fatal accidents in Cyprus.
They also referred to their contacts with the shipping sector in Cyprus and noted that certain demands concerning taxation should be met to the benefit of the whole of the EU.