Arıklı: Kyrenia and Famagusta Ports at Risk of Collapse

Speaking in Parliament about the “Amendment Bill on Fees and Charges for Ships,” yesterday, Arıklı highlighted long-standing issues with port operations. He noted that the Liman İşçileri Şirketi (Port Workers Company), established in 1976, once employed over 350 workers but had only five remaining staff by 2020 due to retirements. Despite this, the company's authority and related laws remained intact until recently.

Arıklı criticized the two-year extension granted to the company in 2020, stating that his administration did not accept it and opted for alternative measures. He also touched on privatization efforts, citing technical reports from experts affiliated with Turkey’s Maritime Operations and Privatization Administration. These reports detailed the critical condition of Girne Harbour and Famagusta Port.

To address immediate operational needs, Arıklı announced the opening of tenders for cargo handling services, with durations linked to the privatization process. Additionally, plans for constructing a new port in Kalecik were disclosed, aiming to shift "dirty cargo" transportation to the area, reserving existing ports for tourism and trade.

Arıklı called for parliamentary support for four draft bills concerning port operations, including the liquidation of the Port Workers Company and regulations on handling services. The urgency of these proposals was unanimously approved by the parliamentary committee.