Gürcafer: Social Housing Projects to Continue as Ongoing Program

Gürcafer emphasized, "Social housing is a broadly planned project. Our goal is not to build luxury homes, but to ensure that those in need can become homeowners."

Speaking on the "Gökhan Altıner with Sabah Postası" program on Kıbrıs Postası TV, hosted and prepared by Gökhan Altıner, Gürcafer answered questions regarding the current state of housing and the construction sector.

He pointed out that the aim is not to direct individuals in need of housing solely to Nicosia, but to implement projects in rural areas as well. "If 10,000 people need housing, we will not build just 500 and leave the rest waiting. We will continue to build according to the needs of each region," he said.

Gürcafer also noted that Prime Minister Ünal Üstel is accelerating the social housing projects, mentioning that over 150 homes are planned in Güzelyurt and more than 500 in Alayköy. Additionally, research is being conducted for new projects in the Mesaoria and Karpaz regions.

"Construction Sector Will Not Stop"

Addressing the impact of errors in the foreign nationals law and pressure from the Greek Cypriot side, Gürcafer stated that the construction sector has been negatively affected. However, he expressed optimism, saying, "We have alternatives. In a world with 8 billion people, we will undoubtedly find new methods."

He also stressed the responsibility of the state, adding, "The government is not the only one to blame; there are shortcomings in all the mechanisms of the state."

"Cyprus Problem and Foreign Policy"

Regarding the Cyprus issue, Gürcafer commented, "We have always supported permanent peace and steps toward a solution. The federation model didn't work, and I believe it won't work anymore. However, we must find a solution somehow."

He also criticized Cyprus' foreign policy, stating that it has been insufficient, particularly regarding Simon Aykut, saying, "There has been no serious diplomatic initiative on this matter. President Ersin Tatar is a good person, but I have always said I find his policies insufficient. Our foreign policy has become much more passive compared to the past, and this puts both us and Turkey in a difficult situation."

Gürcafer pointed out that while the United Nations is set to appoint a new representative, there has been no information about a potential solution. "Federation is no longer on the agenda, but what will the alternative be? No one knows," he added.

"Headscarf Debate is Polarizing"

Gürcafer also addressed the ongoing headscarf debate, stating that it is harming the Turkish Cypriot community. "The headscarf has always been part of this society, but it has never been symbolized or become a topic of controversy. Secularism is a natural part of us, and such debates only serve to create polarization," he said.

He further remarked, "There are those who want to create polarization over this issue, but I don't know who and why. However, such debates harm us and should come to an end."