OYA Tuncalı, the London Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, published a statement, which underlined the services they offered during the coronavirus epidemic, and the efforts undertaken to help citizens return home who were stuck in the UK.
Tuncalı made the following statement:
“Dear members of the UK Turkish Cypriot community,
We are trying to embrace the new way of life created because of the pandemic that has affected the whole world, thus we continue to deal with crises and troubles in the health and economic fields. We continue to experience this process in the UK, which is deeply experiencing the epidemic in comparison to other countries in the world. Reports underline that the UK holds the highest death rates in Europe.
Following the conditions determined in the UK, our representation office continued its current working order intensively since March. Besides, by dealing with many different needs and demands brought about by the pandemic process, it was possible to serve our current work order. By working with our representative staff, without the concept of time, our office managed to produce solutions, support, and inform the demands of our citizens, as well as produce up-to-date reports and resume consulates in its routine working order.
During the period of the virus, TRNC citizens who were unable to go back to North Cyprus managed to go back subsequent to the flights enforced by the TRNC government. A total of 7 repatriation flights to Ercan took place for TRNC citizens, repatriation flights; 2 in March, 2 in April, and 3 in June. The funerals of 19 citizens were also sent to North Cyprus. Our representation office continues to work hand in hand with the society, in line with the decisions and rules set by our Government. We would also like to thanks all institutions and citizens who have contributed to different areas with solidarity during these challenging periods, especially the Council of Turkish Cypriot Associations (CTCA).
At our representative office, our operations continue by creating a safe working environment and hygienic working conditions. However, we pursue the necessary precautions to protect the health of both our citizens and staff, hence our Consulate guides our citizens within the framework of safe distancing.”