5 Minute News

Averof Neofytou proposes a new model to support workers, rejecting the Automatic Indexing System (ATA) as ineffective. He notes that ATA without a link to productivity increases social inequalities. He suggests a three-fold political approach for substantial tax relief and support for citizens below the poverty line. This, he argues, would increase the disposable income of households and protect the economy. In conclusion, he emphasizes the need for radical changes for better outcomes for workers.

The cancellation of the student bus route to the Technical Schools of Larnaca and Agios Lazaros has caused unrest among the parents of the 50 affected students. Some students have not attended school for three days due to lack of transportation. Parents plan to protest if the route is not restored immediately. The incident that led to the cancellation occurred when students threw a bottle at the bus driver. Authorities are seeking a solution to safely reinstate the bus route.

The Ministry of the Interior proposes changes to the election laws for deputies and MEPs to fill vacant independent positions. Through four draft bills, the process of filling vacant seats is simplified, eliminating the need for supplementary elections. When a seat for an independent deputy or MEP is vacated, it will be filled by a candidate from the same party or coalition with available seat leftovers. The public consultation for the draft bills will last until October 13. The elections will be held simultaneously.

The will of Giorgio Armani was revealed in Milan after his passing at the age of 91. His partner, Leo Dell'Orco, will receive 40% of the voting rights in the fashion house. His nieces will receive 30%, while the remaining 30% will go to a foundation established by Armani. The estate includes properties in Milan and St. Tropez. The will also specifies future shares of the company to be sold to international groups.

George Varnava, a former MP, commented on the Anti-Corruption Authority's report regarding possible corruption acts by Marino Sizopoulos. He stated that if Sizopoulos feels innocent, he should request the lifting of his parliamentary immunity to allow for an investigation. Varnava noted that there is an ethical dimension to the issue as Sizopoulos allegedly exploited his power. He urged the Attorney General to ensure justice is served and to investigate the case. Varnava emphasized the need to confirm Sizopoulos's innocence or guilt.

The Supreme Constitutional Court has ruled that the collection of DNA and fingerprints by the police is legal. The unanimous decision found that it does not violate the right to privacy, provided there is reasonable suspicion of a crime. This ruling is seen as significant for the functioning of investigative authorities. Many pending cases can now proceed. Additionally, the legality of collecting telecommunications data from suspects is still under review.

Marinos Sizopoulos, a member of parliament and former president of EDEK, plans to announce his response regarding the findings in the Independent Authority Against Corruption report. He disputes the report's findings and denies any involvement, claiming he reported a forged signature to the police. A press conference is scheduled for after his return from abroad. Sizopoulos intends to review the report before presenting the evidence he possesses. He also questions the Authority's power to disclose the report.

Two Greek Cypriots, who were arrested in the occupied territories on July 19, have been released under certain conditions. They are not allowed to leave the pseudo-state, and their travel documents have been seized. A bail of 100,000 TL has been set for each of them. The next court session is scheduled for September 19. The prosecutor mentioned that the charges will be modified.

The Anti-Corruption Authority released its report regarding the allegations against former EDEK president, Marinos Sizopoulos. The allegations concern Taxan Properties Developers Limited, which has ties to Sizopoulos. Investigators found that the actions committed were related to corruption and included fraud and deception. These violations caused financial damage to third parties and breached transparency rules. The report emphasizes that these actions constitute a breach of trust according to international standards.

A serious traffic accident occurred in Paralimni when a 41-year-old driver hit a 23-year-old pedestrian with his van. The pedestrian was seriously injured and taken to various hospitals for treatment. He was diagnosed with a liver contusion and multiple head injuries. His health is considered critical. The Famagusta Traffic Police is investigating the causes of the accident.

On Friday morning, the police were mobilized due to reports of gunshots at a pharmacy in Germasogeia. Currently, the police do not have further details regarding the incident. Members of the CID have arrived at the scene to conduct investigations. The situation is under control, and the investigation is ongoing. Citizens are urged to remain calm.

The brother of a 62-year-old quadriplegic woman who passed away at Nicosia General Hospital made serious allegations about delays in her medical care. He claims that his sister waited 8 hours to see a doctor and was in critical condition upon admission. He stated that the doctors did not examine her promptly and the conditions were unacceptable. After staying in the unit, she suffered cardiac arrest, and the medical response appeared to be delayed. The family plans to file a complaint with the police after the woman's funeral.

Nadine Menendez, the wife of former Senator Bob Menendez, was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for her involvement in a bribery scheme. She claimed that her husband manipulated her and used her to accept gifts. Prosecutors argued that she played a crucial role in the crimes and sought a longer sentence. The sentence also includes a fine of $922,000. Both spouses have appealed the decisions.

This month, the trial regarding the case of the Abakoumon Monastery is proceeding, with four priests appearing in court. Former archimandrites Nektarios and Porphyrios face serious charges, with the next hearing scheduled for 2025. Metropolitan Isaiah is expected to testify on other financial charges. The accusations include misappropriation of funds and violation of personal data regulations. The trial continues with postponements and scheduled testimonies from defendants and witnesses.

At the Electricity Market Association's General Assembly, George Chrysochoos urged the government to eliminate the emerging natural gas market. He emphasized the need for alternative solutions from private investors, warning that issues with the project could have serious consequences for Cyprus. Mr. Chrysochoos also highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration for energy security. Regarding the electrical interconnection of Cyprus and Greece, he expressed concerns about the project's sustainability and transparency. Cyprus risks becoming energy dependent if appropriate measures are not taken.

New proposed legislations expedite the deportation of third-country nationals whose applications for international protection are rejected. Applicants will have only ten days to appeal to the court after their application is denied. This timeframe is deemed insufficient by two organizations, as it does not allow enough time for submitting appeals. The proposals are also related to the revocation of international protection status in cases of serious crimes. The discussion of the legislation raised disagreements from various stakeholders, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

The parliamentary investigation into the deadly fire in Limassol is moving forward with a joint meeting of three parliamentary committees scheduled for September 18. Over 100 questions are being examined by MPs, who are awaiting answers from the relevant authorities and ministries. The fire caused severe consequences, including two fatalities and extensive environmental damage. The 10 key questions focus on the responsibility of the state mechanism and the need for transparency and preventive measures for future disasters. Society seeks immediate and clear answers to hold accountable those responsible.

A patient undergoing dialysis requested to reduce his treatments so he could go on vacation with his wife, but the hospital denied his request. This denial is not unique, as there are other dialysis patients who have made similar requests and received negative responses. Marios Kouloumas, the honorary president of OSAK, emphasized that access to treatment is a fundamental right for patients. He also pointed out that overburdened dialysis units should not complicate patients' lives. Denying access to treatment can lead to serious consequences for patients' mental and physical health.

The investigation report regarding the escape of the life-sentenced hairdresser has been submitted to the Attorney General. The report is extensive due to the complexity of the case. The hairdresser escaped on September 26, 2024, while being escorted. The inquiry involves state agencies and civilians to determine accountability. Legal issues have emerged that will be examined further.

The recent three-hour general strike by trade unions is expected to have immediate repercussions for the ATA. The Minister of Labor will contact social partners for new discussions. Employers appear hesitant to engage in negotiations, while unions want to see positive signals from the government. The President emphasized the need for dialogue and the failure of the strike to resolve issues. The public is suffering from these protests, and discussions about modernization are necessary.

Yiannis Yiannakis was sentenced to three years in prison by the Nicosia District Court for using false documents during his hiring at the Cyprus Youth Organization. The judge noted that the sentencing was necessary due to the serious nature of the offenses, which were committed repeatedly and with intent. Yiannakis used fake diplomas to gain positions for which he did not meet the qualifications. The judge emphasized the need to deter such offenses. The case highlights issues of nepotism and deception within the public sector.