We demand protection for Garitsa Bay from marine pollution

In a statement signed by the association’s president, Alexandros Vergis, the following is stated:

Today, together with Alexandra Metallinou, a member of our Association’s Board of Directors, we visited Corfu Central Port Authority and gave a statement to the competent investigating officers regarding the major marine pollution observed in Garitsa Bay on the evening of 31 August.

The presence of Alexandra Metallinou was particularly important, as she was the first to notice the pollution incident, photograph it and immediately publicise it through social media, posting the relevant photographs. In this way, the incident became known immediately and timely information was provided about the situation in the bay.

During our statements, we pointed out that, according to our observations and assessment, the pollution phenomenon this year was more severe than in previous years. We believe that, among other things, the significantly increased concentration of anchored vessels observed in the bay should also be investigated.

Garitsa Bay cannot be treated as an uncontrolled anchorage.

It must remain a clean and safe marine area for swimming, walking, recreational fishing and water-sports training, particularly for young children taking their first steps in sailing with Optimist dinghies.

The protection of the sea and public health is non-negotiable.

We call on all citizens, whenever they become aware of an incident of marine pollution, whether it appears to originate from vessels, DEYAK pipelines or any other source, to immediately notify Corfu Central Port Authority and our Association, so that samples can be collected promptly, the source of the pollution can be investigated and, where appropriate, the relevant complaints and legal proceedings can be initiated.

Protecting Garitsa Bay is everyone’s responsibility. We will no longer accept incidents of pollution as something normal or inevitable. Enough is enough.

ELENI KORONAKI