A serious side effect of the waves of refugees and migrants entering Greece is the negative impact on the Greek economy, and more specifically on its tourist industry, at a time when the austerity-stricken country is in dire need of revenue. Six cruise-ships with nearly 5,000 travelers will be diverted to the island of Lemnos, instead of their scheduled destination of Lesvos due to the chaotic situation on Mytilene with the refugees. “It is a serious blow to the local economy, while it could also have a negative impact in the medium term on the island’s tourist reputation”, said travel agent Ilias Pikoulas. In light of the serious repercussions on the social and economic life on the island because of the large influx of refugees, a meeting was held by the Minister of economy, Infrastructure, Shipping and Tourism Nikos Christodoulakis and other officials, Monday to address the matter and examine measures to mitigate the effects.