“Publicity Cruises Will Not Solve Islanders’ Problems”
The North Dodecanese Committee of SYRIZA–Progressive Alliance has strongly criticised the government and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis over his recent visit to Leros and Agathonisi.
In a statement entitled “Pre-Election ‘Cruises’ and the Devaluation of Insularity in Leros and Agathonisi,” the party committee accused the government of treating the islands as platforms for political publicity instead of providing meaningful solutions to residents’ everyday problems.
SYRIZA-PS challenged the government’s message of “security and stability,” arguing that essential public services and support measures for island communities are facing serious difficulties.
The statement places particular emphasis on Greece’s Transport Equivalent scheme, which is intended to offset the additional travel and living costs faced by island residents and businesses. According to the party, long delays in payments have significantly weakened the measure and undermined its effectiveness.
The committee also argued that security in the Aegean cannot be defined exclusively through defence programmes. Genuine security, it said, also requires balanced development, support for local economies, equal opportunities and reliable access to employment, education and strong public services.
Housing and living costs for substitute teachers and healthcare professionals were also highlighted. According to the statement, during the 2025-2026 period many employees either declined island postings or resigned shortly after arriving because their salaries could not cover the high cost of accommodation and everyday life.
SYRIZA-PS further claimed that public healthcare services across the Dodecanese are operating under extremely difficult conditions, citing understaffing, serious shortages and exhausted medical personnel.
“Pre-election celebrations and publicity cruises cannot conceal the harsh reality islanders face every day,” the statement said.
Concluding its announcement, the North Dodecanese Committee called for meaningful financial relief, stronger infrastructure and equal access to essential public services. It also pledged to continue advocating measures aimed at improving the quality of life in Leros, Agathonisi and throughout the Dodecanese.
