https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/09/28/construction-of-cyprus-first-crematorium-approved/Cyprus’ first crematorium is set to begin operations within two years, after applications for its construction were approved by the environment department, according to reports on Wednesday.
Despite parliament having passed the long-awaited law regulating cremations in 2016, there is no crematorium currently operating in Cyprus.
The project is being taken on by M.W Crematorium Cyprus Ltd, at an estimated cost of €2.2 million and a timeline of about 18-24 months.
The proposed building site in Ayia Varvara in Paphos poses no significant negative impact to the area’s surroundings according to the authority reviewing the application.
Calls for the option for cremations have been popular among the expatriate community. They have argued for it on both personal choice and practical grounds, noting the shortage of cemetery plots and the high cost of repatriating a body.
Since 2016, Cyprus and Malta remain the only EU members without a crematorium.
During discussions of the bill in 2016, the Church had voiced its opposition to cremation, but said its position stemmed not from dogma but rather from the need to “preserve tradition”.
The Church, which stands to lose financially from cremations, argued that burial fulfills the need of relatives to visit the graves of loved ones, adding that this ritual offers them solace.
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