The problem of understaffing at lifeguard towers is extremely serious, putting the lives of swimmers at risk. The Ministry of the Interior has issued a circular temporarily allowing the acceptance of expired lifeguard certifications to meet staffing needs at beaches and swimming pools. This measure applies only for the current season due to difficulties in staffing lifeguard positions throughout Cyprus.

Speaking on the Alpha News program, the President of the Pancyprian Lifesaving Federation, Polys Pallikaros, described as “criminal” the insistence of some that there be only one lifeguard at each tower.

“We need to further strengthen our equipment, especially with mechanical rescue devices. There is already pressure from certain city halls, in their effort to cut costs and secure more Blue Flags, to insist on having just one lifeguard at each tower; which is criminal. There needs to be a second and a third as well—it’s simple logic; we don’t even need to discuss it.”

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The Pan-Cyprian Lifesaving Federation recommends that, at the very least during the months of June, July, and August, more beaches be covered from sunrise to sunset.

“We are not insisting that all of Cyprus’s beaches be covered from sunrise to sunset, but the number of lifeguards must be significantly increased. For at least the last ten years, we have been insisting that the number of permanent, ten-month, and eight-month positions be increased. The eight-month positions are indisputable, because our beaches are open eight months a year. Our tourists come to Cyprus for at least eight months a year, and we are obligated to provide them with the corresponding level of safety.”

In fact, according to Mr. Pallikaros, the Pan-Cyprian Lifesaving Federation has sent a new letter to the Ministry of Interior and to the district governors, in which they propose holding discussions with the Ministry of Labor.

“They should provide lists of unemployed individuals who might be interested in working, and once we have those lists, if we have the lists, coordinate training, organize exams, and ensure that those who are able to work can be on the job within 12–15 days. It’s not better to have a closed tower. In Paphos, we’re looking for 110 lifeguards every year; there’s a very serious problem and shortages in all districts except Nicosia.”

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