3rd Annual Meeting of the Monitoring Committee of the Cohesion Policy Programme “THALIA2021-2027”

Referring to the Cohesion Policy Programme “THALIA 2021-2027”, she said that it is currently in full implementation, with projects totalling over €1.5 billion. The Programme focuses on energy and the environment, with projects worth over €700 million. Other key priorities include strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises, digitisation and research and innovation, with projects worth over €250 million. Cyprus’ social fabric is also significantly enhanced with  total funding of over €400 million to promote employment, education and training of human resources, as well as fight against poverty and social exclusion. In addition, more than €150 million are invested in local development through projects implemented by municipalities and local authorities. Moreover, calls for proposals worth over €1.2 billion have already been announced, including projects to support entrepreneurship, research and innovation, as well as energy savings, and foster employment and social cohesion.

Regarding the discussions on the future of the Cohesion Policy and in view of the Commission’s proposal for the new regulatory framework, the firm national position of Cyprus is that the principles of the Cohesion Policy must be safeguarded, ensuring continued robustness that will enable it to contribute to the growth of all member states and regions.

As part of the Commission’s work, Members were briefed on other aspects of the Programme and the Projects of Strategic Importance in the areas of regional connectivity (Nicosia Ring Road) and social inclusion and cohesion (Restructuring of Social Welfare Services) were presented.

The meeting, which took place in the conference room of the Nicosia Municipal Council, was attended by representatives of the competent ministries and public authorities, local authorities, economic and social partners, civil society and research organisations, as well as representatives of the European Commission [Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) and Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Social Inclusion (DG EMPL)].

It is noted that, during their visit to Cyprus, the representatives of the European Commission (DG REGIO and DG EMPL) visited projects co-funded by the “THALIA 2021-2027” Programme.

More specifically, the representatives of DG EMPL, accompanied by officers from DG Growth and the Department of Social Integration of Persons with Disabilities, visited two independent living homes in Nicosia where people with autism reside. The homes are part of the project “Network of Independent Living Facilities and Services in the Community for People with Disabilities”, of a total budget of €22 million, which is co-funded by the European Social Fund+. The visit provided an opportunity to meet the individuals living in the homes, discuss their daily routines, including their employment opportunities and social activities, talk to carers and support staff, and confirm the high standard of services offered and the personal growth and satisfaction of the residents. During the visit, the residents prepared and offered their guests a light lunch.     

Finally, regarding the project “Upgrading Public Transport Infrastructure Across Cyprus”, of a total budget of €74 million, which is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the representatives of DG REGIO visited Archimedes factory in Strovolos Industrial Area, where they attended a presentation on the production process of the metal parts for the new bus stops/shelters to be installed throughout Cyprus under the co-funded project. They also visited the factory of Air Control Ltd in Latsia Industrial Area to see how these parts are painted and assembled.

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