Water cuts lifted in Cyprus

Water cuts are lifted in Cyprus as of February 2, Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Michalis Polinikis announced here today.

Speaking at a press conference, following a meeting with his aides, he said that it has also been decided to supply farmers with water for irrigation purposes, so that they do not lose more income.

Polinikis said that Cyprus is very close to solving the long-standing problem of water shortage, mainly through desalination units which are under construction.

The Minister said that water reserves in dams have reached a satisfactory level and in 2011 when desalination units will be completed Cyprus will not have to rely any longer on rainfall to meet its needs for water supply.

Responding to questions, Polynikis said that the situation as regards water reserves will continue to be re-evaluated every month.

As regards water supplies for farmers, he said that the amount of water to be supplied will be decided at the beginning of March.