A second safe containing around €13,000 was found at the Monastery of Abbacum and handed over to the police. This safe was smaller than the one previously submitted by Metropolitan Isaiah. Police investigations are ongoing regarding allegations of financial irregularities and labor exploitation at the monastery. Developments are awaited, as the Bishop of Tamassos may be called in to provide explanations.
The Cabinet has approved agreements for kidney and lung transplants between Cyprus and Greece, aiming to improve patient care and increase organ donations. These agreements will facilitate organ exchanges in case of incompatibility and allow Cypriot patients to undergo transplants in Greek facilities. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the expansion of a program for children's oral health, deemed essential for early detection of dental issues. These initiatives are considered significant for healthcare and cooperation between Cyprus and Greece.
The Cabinet has approved a plan for a zoning amnesty aimed at strengthening the government's housing policy. This plan offers a way for owners of unauthorized constructions to apply for legal permits through simplified procedures. The Interior Minister emphasized the plan's significance for citizens who have been unable to obtain property titles. The plan will last for six months and includes strict safeguards to prevent misuse.
The Limassol Police Department is on alert due to two simultaneous events on Sunday, including a football derby and a protest march. Authorities are concerned about potential tensions and have implemented strict security measures, involving 300 police officers and the use of drones. The march addresses the issue of the fan card and is expected to attract supporters from all over Cyprus. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have prepared action plans to prevent any violence.
The police are prepared to maintain law and order during the Limassol derby between Apollon and AEL, as well as the protest march by fans of Omonia 29 May. About 300 police officers and the anti-riot vehicle 'Ajax' will be present for the safety of the event. The police are in contact with the teams and the organizers, requesting cooperation to avoid incidents. The Cyprus Football Association has requested the postponement of the protest march to another date.
Bank of Cyprus announced a reduction in its reference interest rate for loans from 4.25% to 3.65%, aligning with decisions made by the European Central Bank. This 0.60% decrease will immediately benefit nearly 8,000 borrowers by lowering their monthly payments. Additionally, reductions in mortgage interest rates are ongoing. Overall, loan interest rates in Cyprus have significantly decreased in recent months.
Minors who were convicted of criminal cases had declared their address as the Adult Shelter of St. George in Larnaca. The Social Welfare Services' decision to host unaccompanied migrants in this facility was proven to be wrong. The situation remained uncontrolled, with the Police intervening to maintain order. There is a lack of political decision-making to resolve the arising issues.
Kenan Ayaz, a Kurdish activist, has filed an appeal against the sentence imposed on him by the Higher Regional Court in Hamburg, resulting in the suspension of his extradition proceedings to Cyprus for one year. The Minister of Justice and authorities are closely monitoring the situation, awaiting the outcome of the appeal. Ayaz has been convicted on charges of participating in a terrorist organization, which he has consistently denied. The process will remain on hold until the appeal is resolved.
The Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students has sent a letter to the Minister of Education regarding unacceptable practices in school transportation, where students are left out of buses due to full capacity. This issue is particularly noted in the Nicosia district, with reports of drivers not allowing students to board. Such incidents have put students at risk, as appropriate safety measures are not being taken. The responsibility for this situation mainly lies with the relevant authorities, not the drivers.
The Audit Office filed a complaint with OLAF regarding a tender from the Fisheries Department, where the more expensive bid was selected. The evaluation criteria placed a 70% weight on the technical aspect, which may have led to excessive costs. An report raises the question of whether the higher price reflects actual quality. The Anti-Corruption Authority is expected to decide whether to investigate possible criminal responsibilities.
The Holy Synod briefly addressed the scandal involving the Monastery of Abbakoum, without raising significant issues. A decision regarding the monks is expected by the end of September. A second expert will testify about the authenticity of the videos implicating the monks. The proceedings will resume on September 20 to ensure a fair trial.
President Christodoulides held important discussions in the United Arab Emirates regarding the involvement of TAQA in the Great Sea Interconnector. His trip focused on energy sector cooperation and the potential participation of TAQA in the project. The UAE shows interest in this interconnection, which is significant for Nicosia. The recent collaboration with TAQA may strengthen discussions around the GSI.
ADMIE is working to finalize the participation of the Republic of Cyprus in its subsidiary Great Sea Interconnector, which will manage the project for 35 years. Cyprus's involvement is expected to attract investors and facilitate financing from the European Investment Bank. President Christodoulides speaks of progress in negotiations and a meeting with the Greek Prime Minister is anticipated. If confirmed, Cyprus's stake will initially be around 30%.
The Erdoğan government is implementing an educational reform by revising the curriculum, which includes new concepts like the Blue Homeland. Students will learn about Turkey's maritime areas of responsibility and historical ties with Turkish states. The new textbooks will feature maps highlighting these themes. This reform aims to strengthen national identity and pride.
Following reports about poor conditions at the Saint George's Home for the Elderly in Larnaca, all unaccompanied migrants were moved last night with police assistance. The relocation happened faster than planned, leading to some protests from the migrants. Social services worked together to ensure their transfer to other facilities. Concurrently, investigations are ongoing for allegations of indecent assault and malicious damage by a minor.
PASYD expresses concern over the removal of health benefits from the GHS for public employees and retirees. The terminated benefits include essential services such as dental care and nutritional supplements, which are vital for many individuals. Despite assurances from the Ministry of Finance, there has been no positive response from the government regarding the restoration of these rights. PASYD emphasizes that public employees should enjoy their rights without discrimination.
Following reports about the conditions at the Saint George's Home for the Elderly in Larnaca, all unaccompanied migrants residing there were moved last night with police assistance. The relocation, initially planned to occur gradually, was completed sooner than expected. Some migrants objected to the move, but ultimately, they were transferred to other facilities. Notably, a minor is in custody facing charges related to the shelter.
The Turkish government has revised its educational curriculum, incorporating concepts like the 'Blue Homeland' into textbooks for elementary, middle, and high school students. Students will learn about Turkey's maritime areas and explore historical and cultural ties of the country. The new program emphasizes the importance of Turkey's geographic interests in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. This reform is part of promoting Turkey's national positions and rights.
A 31-year-old is in critical condition after a road accident in the Akamas area. He was driving a rented buggy when, under circumstances still being investigated, he lost control and crashed into trees. After the impact, he was taken to the General Hospital of Paphos. The police are continuing their investigations into the incident.
Cyprus and the USA are strengthening their relationship through a new defense cooperation agreement, which has triggered reactions in Ankara. The Cypriot Defense Minister emphasized that the country has the right to shape its foreign policy without reporting to other countries. The USA and Cyprus agreed to conduct joint exercises and bolster the defense sector. Ankara countered that cooperation must be based on equality and viable solutions for the island.
The international community is working to organize a tripartite meeting regarding Cyprus in the second half of October. This meeting will involve the leaders of the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, with support from the United Nations. Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar is setting specific demands that need to be met before he agrees to participate. Turkey plays a crucial role in motivating this meeting to happen.
The parliamentary health committee is working on advancing at least seven bills related to public health. Two of these concern the establishment of a Patient Advocate in Cyprus. Other bills include issues such as the operation of palliative care and rehabilitation centers. The processes are expected to be completed by November at the latest.
At the Elderly Care Home 'St. George' in Larnaca, there are serious allegations of misconduct and criminal behavior from unaccompanied minors accommodated there. Employees report that the relevant authorities failed to respond appropriately to previous complaints, leading to a climate of fear. Colleagues have been forced to resign due to the pressure, and the elderly residents are facing a dangerous situation with insufficient care. The frustration of the staff and residents continues to grow, necessitating immediate intervention.
The University of Cyprus is facing delays in the construction of new student dormitories, with costs rising from 35 million to 91 million euros. Questions have arisen regarding design violations by the architects who won the competition. MP Stavros Papadouris has raised the issue in the Audit Committee, calling for transparency. The need for a feasibility study by the government before launching a new competition has been emphasized.
The Audit Office has made improvements to the new agreement between the Republic of Cyprus and Hermes Airports regarding the development of Larnaca and Paphos airports. The agreement includes compensations and an extension of management. The new agreement is seen as positive, particularly for the waiver of claims related to the illegal airport in Tymbou. There are indications that the processes are becoming more transparent and efficient.
ADMHE is working on Cyprus's participation in the share capital of Great Sea Interconnector to enhance the electrical interconnection's appeal to investors. This participation may facilitate approval for funding from the European Investment Bank. Despite pending issues, official sources express optimism about the agreement's acceptance. President Christodoulides is expected to meet to advance the matter further.