The Council of Ministers has decided to establish a Coordinating Unit for Search & Rescue, Minister of Justice and Public Order Ionas Nicolaou has said.

In statements to the press, on Monday and replying to a question on Cyprus` readiness to deal with situations such as the fire which broke out on the passenger vessel “Norman Atlantic”, in Greece, Nicolaou said that all relevant ministries have been tasked to look into how to best use all means in the Republic`s disposal as regards Search & Rescue operations.

The Republic`s capability level as regards response in Search & Rescue situations is quite high, he said, adding that this was proven recently when a number of illegal immigrants was rescued off the island`s southern coast.

Nicolaou continued to say that the Police, the Department of Forests and the National Guard have aircraft and boats to their disposal.

The aim, he said, is that all means available in the Republic are under the supervision of one unit so that the best possible coordination and results can be achieved in Search and Rescue operations.

Replying to another question he said the state budget for 2015 includes a provision for the purchase of two boats by the Interior Ministry and four boats by the Justice Ministry, adding that European funds will also be used.

Referring to the establishment of the new Coordinating Unit he said a study has already been prepared and is under review.

Nicolaou also referred to a recent Search & Rescue co-operation agreement signed between Cyprus and Greece which covers the Cypriot and Greek Exclusive Economic Zones, something which according to him will contribute to the best possible response in search & rescue situations in the region.