Meeting at Port Authority to resolve problems with floating platform in Paleokastritsa

There was a meeting at Corfu Port Authority on Monday morning, July 14, between representatives of the central municipality, the Port Authority, and local stakeholders, in the wake of the incident that occurred on Saturday afternoon at the floating platform in Paleokastritsa.

The immediate response of the Municipal Authority led to an initiative by the Municipality of Central Corfu and the Deputy Mayor for Tourism to organise this meeting.

Participants in the discussion included the Port Authority Director, Anastasios Schinas, representatives of the two boatmen's associations, and the President of the Lakones Community, Christos Michalas.

This is not the first time such incidents have been observed, particularly at the floating platform. Despite competition in the area, it is clear that such behaviours will not be tolerated. From the moment the incident became known, it was stressed that there would be zero tolerance for this kind of behaviour and that similar situations will not be allowed to occur in the future.

"Such images of lawlessness damage the island’s tourism image," stated the Deputy Mayor for Tourism. For this reason, it was jointly decided to strengthen the daily presence of the Port Authority in the area, while the Municipal Authority undertook the responsibility of ensuring proper enforcement of the floating platform’s operating regulations.

The law allows for the imposition of fines, as well as the prohibition of use of the platform for anyone causing such incidents or engaging in unlawful behaviour. This plan is supported both by local professionals and the wider community.

In addition, steps are being taken to immediately establish a three-member committee—something that, as Mr. Chalikopoulos noted, has not happened since 2019, when the regulation was adopted.

The general secretary of the Boatmen’s Association publicly expressed his apology for the recent incident, stressing that this behaviour does not reflect the vast majority of professionals in the area. He described the event as an unfortunate occurrence and expressed hope that, through cooperation between the Association, the Municipality, and the Port Authority, the situation will become better organised in the future and function more effectively—leaving no room for perceptions of lawlessness in the operation and use of the floating platform.

For his part, the President of the Lakones Community, Christos Michalas, stated that the area has been seriously degraded due to such incidents and expressed the need to put an end to the frequent unlawful behaviours. He noted that some of these incidents are covered up while others become public, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement.

The local community wishes for the immediate cessation of these behaviours, which often stem from personal disputes or financial interests, aiming to create a more organised and favourable environment for both residents and visitors to the area.

ΑΝΝΑ LAZAI

Photos/Videos: Enimerosi