George Ioakeimidis (Head of the Local Government Division) and Aimilios Cheilakis (member of the Political Committee of the Greek Left Coalition). The visits took place as part of the Hellenic Left Alliance’s tour of Kythira, which will culminate in an open rally and discussion on Sunday at 7:00 p.m. in Avlemonas.
During their visit to the Kythira Fire Department station, the Hellenic Police delegation spoke with its officers and staff, and received a detailed briefing on the service’s operational readiness, working conditions, shortages, and the challenges they face. The visit took place during a particularly critical period, when the Fire Department’s operational readiness is a matter of vital importance for the safety of residents and visitors. Kythira has been repeatedly ravaged by devastating fires in recent years, a fact that makes the need for adequate staffing, modern equipment, and substantial reinforcement of the Fire Department.
Next, Mr. Ioakeimidis and Mr. Cheilakis visited the «Trifylleio» General Hospital of Kythira, where they were received by the hospital director, who provided them with a detailed briefing. The Hellenic Police officials emphasized that the state of health services on the islands requires special attention and substantial support. Adequate staffing, meeting the needs for medical and nursing personnel, equipment, and the hospital’s uninterrupted operation are essential prerequisites for the safety of residents, as well as for meeting the increased needs during the summer months.
Mr. Ioakeimidis and Mr. Cheilakis, accompanied by representatives of the Greek Left Coalition in Kythira, as well as by residents of the island, took note of the needs and problems brought to their attention and pledged to address them as part of their political and social activism.
The Greek Left Coalition’s presence in Kythira is part of an effort to establish meaningful contact with local communities and highlight the real problems faced by the residents of the Greek islands.
Tomorrow, Sunday, August 9, at 7:00 p.m., an event will be held at Avlemonas as part of the «Now We Speak» series of activities.
Citizens themselves will have the first say; they will be invited to share their views, concerns, and suggestions regarding the problems they face and possible solutions.
As Hellenic Police officials pointed out, «For us, policy cannot be made without taking society into account. «Now We Speak» means that first we listen, we take note, and then we advocate.».
