Improving the quality of life for Greek Cypriots living in areas of the north is a priority, government spokesman Konstatinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday.

“Upgrading the living conditions for Greek Cypriots living or repatriated in the north is a basic goal of the state,” he said, speaking after the conclusion of a cabinet meeting.

The government is to make available additional funding for those who “keep our occupied villages alive”, Letymbiotis said.

Included among the benefits the communities currently receive are funds for repair, renovation and construction of residences.

To this end, the latest state subsidy covers the repair and replacement of solar water heating units, the need for which will be certified by local community leaders.

Applications will be accepted by the Humanitarian Services department of the Presidency, upon receiving the local deputy mayor’s seal of approval.

The funding, to be made available for a year as soon as it is officially approved, comes to a total of €360,000, an amount which was reached after discussion with the affected communities.

Each replacement solar water heater is to be covered by an amount of €1,200 and will apply to about 300 of the 420 households. Community and common use buildings are also included.

Cabinet has authorised the head of humanitarian matters for Greek Cypriots living in the north to coordinate and implement the measure.