The government remains committed to supporting district government organisations (EOAs) with the necessary tools, resources and the appropriate institutional framework so they can operate successfully, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said on Sunday.

Speaking at the naming ceremony of the Andreas Sepos Paralimni-Ayia Napa wastewater treatment plant, he said the event was symbolic for two reasons: it highlights the importance of modern infrastructure for sustainable development, and as an act of honour “to a man who served the local government for years with ethos, diligence and dedication”.

Working for the Paralimni sewerage board and later the Famagusta EOA, Sepos contributed to the design and implementation of important infrastructure projects, especially in the field of wastewater management and environmental protection.

The EOAs, Ioannou said, are called upon to play a decisive role in the modernisation and improvement of service to citizens and the implementation of critical infrastructure projects.

“As modern and strong institutions, they have a responsibility to ensure the effective management of essential services, such as water supply, sanitation and development licensing, with transparency, efficiency and sustainability in mind,” he said.

The Paralimni-Ayia Napa wastewater treatment plant, he continued, is a typical example of the importance of such infrastructure.

“Especially in an area with intense tourist activity, the smooth operation and continuous upgrading of the station are a basic condition for the protection of the environment and the assurance of sustainable development,” he said.

He then pledged the support of the government to EOAs so they could carry out such works.