Great feedback was received by the Kythera.News dialogue initiative on Facebook, where residents and friends of Kythera were invited to express their views on the priorities, problems and proposals that could change the island for the better. What are the prevailing issues so far:
Growth and opportunities for young people: The need to create production units and jobs beyond tourism and construction, so that young people can be remain on the island and not to be dominated by mass tourism, was one of the reports.
Infrastructure and everyday life: Citizens expressed strong dissatisfaction with the state of the roads, the transportation, the ferry connection, as well as the conservation of archaeological sites and public infrastructure.
Health and social structures: Another problem reported was the shortage of doctors at the hospital, with residents saying they are forced to travel to Athens even for simple medical needs.
Management of the natural environment: Proposed better protection of nature, the restriction of arbitrary interventions.
Another of the issues raised was the uncontrolled overpopulation of wild goats, which cause damage to crops and threaten the natural balance of the island. The proposals heard include controlled hunting activity, sterilisation and the creation of shelters to manage the phenomenon.
The debate on Facebook continues, with citizens demanding substantial changes and more participation in decision-making. It remains to be seen whether these views will influence policy-making on the island.
You can watch the debate and participate by following the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/kytheranews/permalink/9221042684691650/
