Ministry Responds on Paphos-Polis Road Project Cost
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works has responded to criticisms regarding the termination of the contract for the Paphos ā Polis Chrysochous highway. In a statement, the Ministry says that accepting the contractor's claims would lead to a cost of ā¬119 million and a delay until 2029.
The Ministry refutes claims by Averof Neofytou and Yannis Karousos, who spoke of an additional burden of ā¬43 million for the taxpayer. The Ministry emphasizes that it will not give in to unjustified claims and that the priority is to safeguard the public interest.
According to the Ministry, the initial 2021 contract was for ā¬72,979,000 (plus VAT). The contractor submitted claims for ā¬36 million and requested a 59-month extension, which were rejected. The evaluation process for the new bids is ongoing.
The Ministry of Transport is considering all legal options, including re-tendering, assignment or negotiation, if deemed permissible.