FinMin orders stepped up inspections amid budding campaign against rampant presence of pay-to-use umbrellas, sun beds on Greek beaches

The Greek government this week apparently “jumped on the wagon” of a budding popular movement on some islands against the unbridled presence of pay-to-use umbrellas and sun beds on beaches.

The first protests by locals and visitors took place last month on the popular Cyclades holiday island of Paros, which were widely reported in local media. Since then, similar protests have taken place on Rhodes, Naxos and Serifos.

Extremely negative press reports first surfaced in the spring when images of walled-off beaches and enlarged beach bars on Mykonos made headlines, with some businesses operating without licenses.

Speaking on Wednesday, Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis said the government “will not exempt anyone” from inspections to ensure that beach bars and eateries are following regulations and not blocking the public’s free access at any coastline.

Under the Greek constitution, access to the entire coastline for all is guaranteed.

He said inspections will increase during the remaining summer season to ensure that businesses are observing their terms of contract.