The Cyprus police have announced significant transfers affecting over 50 personnel, including 35 officers. The moves involve important departments such as YKAN and the Traffic Headquarters. Some personnel have already taken up new positions, including Christos Andreou and Haris Evripidou. These changes are expected to impact the functioning of the police.
A woman was severely attacked by a Pit Bull dog in Limassol while visiting a residence for collections. She suffered serious injuries to her hand and required surgery. The Police and Veterinary Services are investigating the incident, as the dog exhibits aggressive tendencies. If confirmed, the dog may be subjected to euthanasia.
Natasa Pileidou has been appointed as the Managing Director of Med Energywise Ltd, a subsidiary of Petrolina. She has extensive experience in the energy sector and previously served as the Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry in Cyprus. Her appointment comes at a crucial time for the company as it moves to acquire ExxonMobil Cyprus's retail fuel sector. The start of her tenure is subject to obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reshuffled the government, announcing a new composition and changes in ministries. Kostis Hatzidakis takes on the role of Deputy Prime Minister, while Kyriakos Pierakakis assumes the Ministry of National Economy. Many other positions have also changed, with new ministers appointed to critical areas. The swearing-in of the new government members will take place tomorrow at the Presidential Palace.
A rally is planned to take place in the Paphos state forest despite the objections from authorized services. The Green Movement expresses concerns about the risks of the event and its impact on the area during the breeding season. Various state agencies, including the Forestry Department, have deemed the organization of the race illegal and dangerous. Nonetheless, there are political pressures to grant permission for the rally.
The cooperation between the government and local authorities has deteriorated as municipalities and regional organizations accuse the government of shirking responsibility for challenges arising from reforms. There is a recognition that instead of arguing over the burdens of reform, they should unite to demand necessary governmental support. Municipalities are facing financial pressures with resources remaining static, affecting their services. Additionally, the regional organizations are requesting assurances for the retention of staff transferred from municipalities.
A 12-year-old child with Type B flu passed away at Makareio Hospital. After a rapid deterioration in health, the child was referred to intensive care, and efforts were made for air transfer to a hospital in Israel. Unfortunately, the doctors were unable to save the child. This case highlights the seriousness of flu complications, especially in young patients.
Health Minister Michalis Damianos wants to introduce an amending bill to address the legal gap in the Gesy law. The government does not plan to allow prescription writing outside of Gesy. Damianos emphasizes the importance of the new bill undergoing technical examination to avoid potential errors. He agrees with the suggestions to postpone the discussion of the bill for better assessment of the court's decision.
In Nicosia, members of the Anti-Narcotics Unit found and seized over two kilograms of cannabis from a 50-year-old man. The suspect, a resident of Larnaca, was arrested following a vehicle check. A small amount of cannabis was also discovered at his apartment. He is expected to appear before the District Court of Nicosia.
An American Airlines Boeing 737-800 made an emergency landing in Denver due to an engine problem that caused a fire during taxiing. Passengers were quickly evacuated without injuries reported. The airline emphasized the safety of the landing and the prompt response of the crew. The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident.
President Christodoulides' interview regarding his government's two-year performance generated conflicting interpretations. Opposition and coalition parties disagree on the government’s achievements and the announcement of VAT reduction to 9%. Some parties criticize the timing of the announcement, suggesting the focus should be on the upcoming Geneva conference. Citizens express concern about their economic situation despite government claims.
This weekend, temperatures are expected to reach around 30 degrees Celsius, with mainly sunny weather. Following that, significant temperature drops and possible rain are expected next week. Starting Tuesday, warm air masses will begin to retreat. By the end of the week, there may even be a chance of snow in Troodos.
An employee of the Game and Wildlife Service reported their superior for alleged unethical practices related to poaching incidents. The allegations reached senior government officials in the Ministry of Interior, but they were deemed unfounded and not substantiated. Authorities investigated the claims and stated that no evidence of wrongdoing was found. Nonetheless, the details of the allegations remain serious.
Starting next month, a list of drivers who have not paid their traffic camera fines will be implemented. This list will be checked at airports and ports to enforce compliance. Currently, there are over 250,000 unpaid fines, which concerns the authorities. The deadline for payment is March 31, after which criminal charges will follow for non-compliance.
A new scandal is being examined at the Cyprus State Scholarship Foundation (IKYK) regarding the rental of a two-story house to a law firm that represented the Foundation in 2013. The property was rented for €500 monthly, despite previous offers being unappealing. There are also indications of sub-leasing the property to the wife of one of the lawyers from the firm. This case raises concerns about the management of public resources.
From April 1, there will be a reduction of VAT on electricity from 19% to 9%. It is expected that 494 thousand household consumers will benefit from this reduction, with an average saving of about 20 euros every two months. The VAT reduction will last for one year and is part of measures to combat rising costs. The Government states that the decision was made due to the improvement of the economy.
The Government is proposing the installation of automatic banking machines (ATMs) in mountainous and remote areas in response to the closure of bank branches. The list includes 10 areas, including the Kykkos Monastery. The aim is to improve service for residents, regardless of population distribution. Banks are reviewing the proposals, with some disagreements noted but no major tensions observed.
Israel, Cyprus, and Greece are rejecting Turkey's attempts to assume a monitored role in the region. The three countries are discussing the resumption of negotiations regarding Cyprus, emphasizing their support for its territorial integrity. The trilateral cooperation is combined with a revival of the 3+1 format that includes the U.S. They are also exploring strategic partnerships in the Eastern Mediterranean.