OIC Ombudsman Association Member and the Ombudsman of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), H.E. İlkan Varol, has released a detailed report highlighting serious administrative shortcomings in the management of the historic Girne (Kyrenia) Ancient Harbour. The investigation, initiated in response to a formal complaint by Mr. Faik Gencer, examined failures related to the collection of mooring and cleaning fees from commercial vessels operating within the harbour.
The findings reveal that out of 163 vessels stationed in the harbour, only 11 have signed contracts with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment. Despite clear legal obligations, the Ministry has not taken necessary actions against non-compliant vessel owners. This failure to enforce existing regulations has not only undermined administrative integrity but also resulted in significant losses in public revenue. In 2024, contractual arrangements generated merely USD 5,809 and TRY 47,085, with total collections including overdue payments amounting to USD 6,877 and TRY 37,675—figures that reflect an alarmingly low rate of compliance for a public asset of such importance.
The Ombudsman’s report criticizes the Ministry for neglecting its authority to impose sanctions or remove vessels operating without valid agreements, in direct contravention of the Tourism Industry Incentives Law and the Good Administration Law of the TRNC. Moreover, despite the harbour being officially designated as a “Tourism Protection Area” since 1992, enforcement of relevant protective regulations has remained weak and inconsistent. This has raised further concerns over the preservation of the harbour’s cultural and touristic value.
In his conclusions, H.E. İlkan Varol emphasized the urgent need for the Ministry to uphold its legal duties by enforcing fee collection, terminating unauthorized contracts, and ensuring that vessels operating within the harbour do so in accordance with established laws. She also stressed the importance of proactive governance, regulatory transparency, and institutional accountability to prevent further erosion of public trust and to safeguard state resources.
This report underscores the vital role of the Ombudsman institution in promoting lawful administration, protecting public interest, and reinforcing the principles of good governance across Northern Cyprus.
