Press release of the municipal faction «All Together» regarding with the Aqua Jewel accident in Diakofti:
«ALL TOGETHER, KYTHERA - ANTI-KYTHERA»
«To launch ships suitable for the sea of Kythera»
Yesterday's grounding of the ship Aqua Jewel in Diakofti confirms in a dangerous way our recent complaints about the ferry connection between Kythera and Antikythera.
Today our islands are completely cut off from mainland Greece, with no sea connection. One ship (PORFYROUSA) is at a yearly standstill and without a replacement ship, the other is moored in Diakofti.
We pointed out in good time the problems of inconsistency that the Aqua Jewel was experiencing. Changes or even cancellations even at the last minute. Those who were planning to go to Kythera were as if they were playing LOTO.
It is clear that drastic interventions are needed in the coastal connection of our islands. We cannot be treated as second-class citizens. We don't want to get on a ship and say «we go where it goes»...
We call on the government and the Ministry of Shipping to ensure the safety of our islanders and the crews. Ensure that ships are launched to meet the particularly difficult conditions of the Kythera Sea. Demand and achieve the upgrading of the category of vessels for these barren routes.
The head of our faction Zacharias Souris in a statement says: «Kythera and Antikythera are not only for the summer. Residents to be permanent must have permanent care. We invite politicians of all parties to visit us sometime in the winter to understand what abandonment means. We call on the Municipality of Kythera to take initiatives to put pressure on all those responsible. Smiles and good words are fine, but we demand concrete projects. No more mockery».
