Cyprus Interior Ministry begins preparations for EU elections

The elections are to be held between 22-25 May in all European member states and in Cyprus are most likely to take place Sunday, May 25.

Head of the Service Dimitris Dimitriou told CNA that recently he had a meeting with the political parties as regard the polling stations abroad, adding that because of the economic crisis, stations will most probably operate only in three countries, namely Greece, Britain and Belgium.

As regard Cyprus, Dimitriou said that a total of approximately 1,100 stations will operate in the Republic.

Dimitriou also said that the total number of voters is expected to be 560.000, clarifying that the first time voters are 10.000 and they were notified by letter last week about registering. EU citizens who reside in Cyprus have also the right to vote and they will be receiving letters next week.

People can cast their vote by showing their election booklet or their identity card.

Cyprus elects six MEPs. In the previous elections in June 2009 the participation in the elections in Cyprus was 59,4%, whereas in the EU was 43%.