The Cabinet decided to raise the retirement age for ministers and MPs from 60 to 65 years. Additionally, a provision allowing officials to waive state pensions for holding multiple positions is being established. These changes aim to streamline the legislative framework regarding pensions for state officials. The proposed changes are expected to be discussed in Parliament.
The government has decided to establish an Audit Council to modernize the Audit Office of the Republic. The Council will consist of the General Auditor and other appointed members, with fixed terms of office. Additionally, the roles of the Attorney General and the Assistant Attorney General will be separated, leading to the creation of the office of the General Public Prosecutor. These reforms aim to enhance the independence and effectiveness of public services.
The Cabinet decided on automatic registration in the electoral rolls and lowering the voting age to 17. These reforms aim to promote democratic culture among young people and simplify the voting process. The Ministers have been authorized to proceed with the implementation of these reforms. The decisions are expected to be submitted to Parliament.
The ongoing meeting of the Council of Ministers is focused on discussing the electricity interconnection between Cyprus and Crete, although it has not been officially confirmed. There were discussions regarding whether parliamentary approval is needed for the commitment of 125 million euros. The government is considering its legal obligations concerning the agreement. The timeline for completing the project depends on decisions that need to be made soon.
The Cabinet is discussing legislation today regarding the separation of powers of the Attorney General and the establishment of an audit council. The Justice Minister presented the ministry's efforts to comply with international recommendations, mentioning bills that modernize the services. The Auditor General emphasized the importance of the independence of the Audit Service, which has evolved based on the Swedish model. The government is considering the creation of a supervisory mechanism for the Audit Service.
France has initiated a trial ban on mobile phones in 200 middle schools, aiming to reduce students' screen time and combat cyberbullying. If successful, the ban will be extended to all schools by 2025. In Cyprus, discussions are underway regarding amendments to regulations to also prohibit mobile use during breaks, where most issues seem to arise. This measure has been positively received by both school staff and students.
A diamond worth €4,784 was stolen in 2007 from a transport company, and the case has been in court ever since. The District Court ruled that the company must pay the full value of the diamond, but the company appealed, leading to a new ruling. The Supreme Court overturned the lower court's decision, insisting on adherence to the terms of the agreement regarding compensation. As a result, the case continues with an uncertain final outcome.
Human Rights Watch accuses Cyprus and Lebanon of forcing refugees to return to Syria by violent means. The two countries are reportedly working together to prevent Syrian refugees from reaching Europe, sending them back to Syria where they face serious dangers. The EU has provided aid to Lebanon to combat irregular migration, but HRW emphasizes that fundamental human rights rules are being violated. The Cypriot Interior Minister acknowledged agreements made regarding migrants since 2020.
Pharmacists have decided to withdraw from the 24-hour and night duty program in protest against their operating hours. The Pancyprian Pharmaceutical Association states that their patience has run out, especially as legal appeals regarding the hours have been pending for two years. The Association's President notes that some pharmacies do not adhere to the schedules either illegally or due to court orders, negatively impacting compliant pharmacies. This situation highlights ongoing issues within the pharmaceutical sector in Cyprus.
The European Union is partnering with the World Health Organization to address nursing staff shortages in member states. With funding of €1.3 million from the EU4Health program, actions will be implemented over 36 months, focusing on countries with significant shortages. The initiative includes strategies for recruitment, training, and support for nursing staff. In Cyprus specifically, efforts are underway to increase the number of nurses through vocational guidance programs.
The 4.9 magnitude earthquake in Paphos caused concern as attention turned to Pissouri due to landslides in the area. The Geological Survey Department will check the underground conditions and any new land shifts. Over the past 30 years, the area has recorded eight earthquakes, with the most destructive one occurring in 1953. However, experts state that there is no reason to panic about a larger earthquake.
A 71-year-old driver was charged with causing the death of a 42-year-old cyclist in Limassol. The police arrested him after reviewing surveillance footage. The suspect claimed he did not notice the collision and is in custody for two days. Autopsy results and a reconstruction of the accident are expected soon.
MP Chrysanthos Savvidis filed a complaint to the Education Committee, claiming that some college graduates do not know basic English words. This complaint was made during a discussion about the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, which evaluates universities and colleges. The representative of the colleges contested the accusation, calling it unfounded. Nonetheless, the complaints highlight the importance of the Agency's work.
Two aftershocks were recorded in Cyprus following a 4.9 magnitude earthquake. The Director of the Geological Survey Department stated that the earthquake falls within the normal seismic activity for the area, which has a history of seismic events. He urged the public to be prepared and informed about safety measures during an earthquake. The focus should be on personal safety, as there may not be enough time for other actions during such incidents.
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