Health authorities in France are on alert after the death of an immunocompromised man caused by the Shamonda virus, which had never been detected in humans before. The virus, mainly found in cattle, was likely transmitted by a bite from an infected midge. This case marks the first of its kind globally. Authorities assure that there is no threat to the general population's health. Investigations continue regarding the infection and spread of the virus.
Starting at midnight, the special consumption tax on heating oil is being reduced. The reduction is 6.39 cents per liter and will be in effect until April 30, 2027. This measure aims to support households and businesses as winter approaches, amid geopolitical uncertainties and rising international prices. The fiscal cost is expected to reach €5.2 million. The Finance Minister is seeking an exemption from Brussels to completely eliminate the tax on heating oil.
Averof Neofytou submitted over 3,000 supporting signatures for his candidacy as head of DISY. The signatures exceed the minimum requirement of 500 per district. Neofytou arrived with friends and colleagues. The deadline for submitting signatures is tomorrow to allow for verification before the official candidacies. The electoral process will take place on Saturday, November 28.
The special education teacher of Stylianos described the child's difficult life during his testimony in court, where he broke down in tears. Stylianos was untidy and worked in his father's yard instead of playing with other children. He expressed deep concern for his younger siblings, wanting to protect them from the hardships he faced. The teacher also mentioned incidents of violence in Stylianos' family, highlighting frequent family conflicts. His testimony revealed the emotional burden and challenges the child endured.
Cyprus will participate for the first time with a National Guard contingent in the military parade in Thessaloniki for October 28. The participation will include 24 members from the Special Forces unit and war veterans. The parade is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, at 11 a.m. This event will combine celebrations for the national anniversary with the liberation of Thessaloniki. Cyprus's presence highlights the significance of the commemoration.
Panos Zezos, a member of the Cyprus Thalassemia Association, expressed his concern at the House about serious blood shortages that could affect thalassemic patients. He recalled how his parents had to sacrifice one child due to limited blood resources. Patients face postponed transfusions, impacting their physical and professional lives. The conditions in the clinic signal a health warning for their well-being and quality of life. The situation is alarming, and patients are calling for support.
In Cyprus, clocks will be set back one hour on Sunday, October 25, as the summer time period ends. The change will occur at 4:00 a.m., moving to 3:00 a.m., marking the return to standard time. The announcement from the Ministry of Energy confirms that this practice applies to all EU countries. The return to summer time will take place on the last Sunday of March. The relevant decree was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic.
The second phase of the Limassol-Saitta road is delayed due to environmental approvals, with completion expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Without the necessary approval, the project cannot proceed, although the feasibility study has already been completed. The Transport Minister stated that delays are linked to necessary studies and not a lack of political will. The expropriation process is ready, awaiting environmental approval. The project is critical for Limassol and the mountain communities.
The Legal Service clarified that the Larnaca marina and its land belong to the state and a competition is required for their development. The service's representative, Rena Papaeti, stated that the Port Authority of Cyprus must participate in the bidding process. The discussion in Parliament became heated due to the initial absence of the Legal Service, with MPs expressing their concerns. There were also mentions of possible legal suits if ownership status changes. The intervention of the Legal Service altered the details of the discussion regarding the project.
Last night, a serious car accident occurred in the Limassol district, resulting in six people being injured. The 58-year-old driver and his 65-year-old wife were taken to a private hospital, while the other occupants were admitted to public hospitals. The 49-year-old woman seems to have suffered a potential aortic rupture, and the others have serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The police are investigating the causes of the collision. The health condition of the five injured individuals is not life-threatening.
On Wednesday, government websites in Europe and elsewhere were taken offline due to serious vulnerabilities in a popular programming language, PHP. PHP developers issued urgent security updates to fix these issues. Many government agencies took preventive measures by shutting down their websites to avoid potential hacker attacks. Major tech companies are collaborating to identify and address these vulnerabilities. The situation has prompted global warnings about internet security.
At the Limassol District Court, a woman entered carrying a large knife and other items. During a security check, a pair of pliers and a kitchen knife were found in her bag. The police were called, and the woman was arrested while resisting during the handcuffing process. She was then taken to the Limassol Police Department for further handling of the case. The incident caused a disturbance in the court.
A military helicopter has crashed in Kalymnos under unclear circumstances. So far, there are no reports of injuries. Authorities are investigating the incident. More information is expected soon. The situation is being closely monitored.
Greece presented concerns about the Turkey-Libya memorandum at the UN Security Council, labeling it illegal. The Greek representative emphasized that international maritime law cannot be disregarded by unilateral decisions. Greece reaffirmed its desire for a stable Libya without foreign interventions and that negotiations must respect the sovereignty of neighboring countries. Egypt reacted strongly against the memorandum, warning Turkey that it would not accept challenges to its rights in the region. This is the first discussion on the matter at the Security Council.
The Environment Committee is reviewing the expansion of the green point network in Cyprus, which is set to increase from 28 to 36 overall. The completion of Phase A is expected to introduce 5 new points in areas such as Ayia Napa and Larnaca. There are delays in the Famagusta district due to management disagreements and concerns regarding operational costs. Additionally, 50 green kiosks and 17 small green points are planned for remote areas. Meeting deadlines is critical as the projects are co-financed by European funds.
Metal scaffolding has appeared in the Strovolos Linear Park as part of an architectural initiative by students and young architects. The installation aims to highlight the use of public space in flexible and temporarily adaptable ways. Citizens and youth are using the structure for relaxation by creating makeshift hammocks. This initiative is the result of the Summer Workshop for Students and Young Architects 2026. During the workshop, various outdoor space needs were examined to create functional areas.
PASYD is planning a legal action to convert 1,500 fixed-term employees into permanent positions. These employees have more than 30 months of service and feel unfairly treated by the Ministry of Finance's decision. The General Secretary of PASYD states that this change will not incur costs to the state as they already fill vacant positions. PASYD has also partnered with law firms for legal support in this matter. This move aims to secure the employees' rights.
Local Authorities are starting to make progress in issuing building and urban planning permits, providing hope for citizens seeking faster processing. Despite many applications being processed, there are still 29,543 pending. Specifically, Limassol has the highest number of pending applications. In September, 1,672 urban planning permits and 675 building permits were completed. There are questions about whether this positive trend will continue in the future.
Cyprus is recognized as the European leader in fiscal management, achieving the highest budget surplus in the EU for 2025. While other countries face rising debts and deficits, Cyprus maintains low government spending and demonstrates significant fiscal stability. The budget surplus reached €1.36 billion, with social security organizations contributing significantly. Despite increases in government expenditure, the state invests in growth with a remarkable rise in capital expenses. Public debt has decreased below 50% of GDP, recording the largest decline in the EU.
Anita Dimitriou, the president of DISY, outlined the party's political direction for the presidential elections. She emphasized the need for unity and the prevention of a rise in leftist politics. She suggested that DISY should collaborate with Nikos Christodoulides in the second round. She also addressed internal party processes for selecting a candidate, stating that DISY's positions remain consistent. Lastly, she highlighted the need for bold decisions to address energy costs.
An American evaluation organization reports that Cyprus is declining in the area of 'order and security'. The country ranks 45th out of 143 countries worldwide and 26th out of 31 in its region. Despite improvement in other areas, the security situation remains concerning. Specifically, the Cypriot government faces limitations on power and is marked by issues such as crime and violence. The observed level of security is the lowest in the last six years.
The first towers are set to be built in Livadia, Larnaca as part of the Horizon Towers development, with a total cost of €200 million. This project will include 6 towers with 528 residential units, luxury restaurants, a gym, and other amenities. Two 20-story buildings will be the tallest in Larnaca, with the building permit already issued. Construction processes have commenced, and further investments from SLK are expected. The second phase of the project will begin after 2030 and will involve four additional towers.