Controversy over traffic camera fine delivery in Cyprus

The parliamentary Legal Committee recently addressed systemic issues regarding the delivery of traffic fines recorded by cameras, following concerns raised by AKEL MPs Aristos Damianou and Andreas Pasiourtidis. Data from the Department of Road Transport indicates that only 20% of 190,000 attempts to deliver fines have been successful, leaving over 360,000 cases pending. Officials discussed the controversial use of the 'Photo Radar List' for delivering fines at checkpoints, airports, and ports. While the Legal Service confirmed there are no legal restrictions on issuing fines at these transit points, lawmakers expressed concern over potential due process violations, particularly for citizens unaware of accumulated fines due to incorrect address registration. A new bill proposing the delivery of fines via SMS and email has completed public consultation and is undergoing legislative review at the Legal Service since February 4. MPs emphasized that citizens should not face sudden financial burdens from accumulated penalties without prior notification. Critics warned against coercive tactics, calling for better administrative efficiency in managing traffic violations.