Monks from the Monastery of Abakum are set to appear before the Permanent Criminal Court of Nicosia to answer charges against them. Initially facing 19 charges, they now face a total of 24 with the addition of 5 new ones. Their lawyer plans to raise an objection to the indictment. The charges include serious offenses such as theft and forgery.
The strike in the ready-mix concrete sector continues into its third week, as no agreement has been reached regarding employee overtime. The Minister of Labor, Yiannis Panayiotou, has called a new meeting to assess the situation, inviting leaders from unions and employer associations. Despite negotiations, the unions SEK and PEO rejected the mediation proposal, insisting on their original demands. Restoring normalcy in the sector is deemed essential for the stability of the economy.
The monks of the Monastery of Abakoum harshly criticize the Holy Synod and the Archbishop of Cyprus, alleging that they have not punished the moral author of the scandal. They state that their defrocking process was predetermined and unjust, asserting that they will continue their fight for justice. Additionally, they declare that they will not be transferred to other monasteries, remaining united in their current monastery. They emphasize that the history of the Church is filled with such injustices and express their distrust towards the Holy Synod.
Health Minister Michalis Damianos expresses regret over doctors' decision to strike for 48 hours. He stated that the unions rejected the Ministry's proposal of a 2.5 million euro compensation, instead demanding 9 million for the years 2023 and 2024. He urges doctors to choose dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the need for stability in healthcare services. He calls for reason to prevail in the sensitive area of health.
A recent report reveals details about the crash of a Black Hawk helicopter in Cyprus, resulting in the deaths of five American soldiers. The helicopter belonged to a secret unit of the U.S. military and was conducting night drills. U.S. authorities initially claimed it was due to an aerial refueling issue, but the new report contradicts this information. The incident comes to light amid rising tensions in the region.
Public sector doctors are going on a 48-hour strike after rejecting the proposal from Health Minister Michalis Dhamianos. The minister stated that the amount available for 2023 is €2.5 million, while the doctors are demanding at least €4.5 million. They insist on the need for an increase in their financial incentives. The meeting with the minister lasted three hours but ended without an agreement.
59-year-old Olga Vitorovich from Limassol has been missing for three days under unusual circumstances. Her children, concerned for her safety, are appealing to the public for help in finding her. Olga has mental health issues and usually goes out for a short while but has not returned this time. The police and private citizens are involved in the search efforts for her.
The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, emphasized the need to create a culture of road safety following recent tragic accidents. He noted that cameras are not the only solution and that collaboration is required to enhance road awareness. He also discussed the situation of refugees and the government's efforts to address longstanding issues related to refugee settlements. The President highlighted the importance of democratic participation and citizen involvement in the political process.
The Legal Service shows respect for the decision of the Supreme Constitutional Court, which ruled that the law requiring the Attorney General and the Deputy Attorney General to submit asset declarations is constitutional. The referral made by the President of the Republic concerned institutional issues rather than personal ones. The two officials had already submitted their asset declarations upon taking office. The Court concluded that the law enhances transparency and public trust in the institution.
The article invites citizens to participate in an online survey regarding the external and internal policies of President Nikos Christodoulides. It addresses urgent issues such as inflation, housing, and corruption. Citizens are encouraged to share their opinions on government management and the ministers. The survey is conducted by Prime Market Research & Consulting Ltd.
The Parthenon Sculptures may return to Greece in 2025, as reported by the Economist. The British government and the British Museum appear open to a long-term loan agreement. Public opinion in the UK also shows support for their return. The global trend for the repatriation of cultural artifacts is expected to strengthen in 2025.
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis responded to MP Chatzigiannis regarding criticism of defective airbags, noting that the issue has existed since 2010 and that he is managing it with his colleagues. He emphasized that public safety is a priority and that measures have already been taken to improve awareness of recalls. He highlighted the need to strengthen communication with vehicle owners and the recall processes. The political exploitation of the issue by Chatzigiannis does not reflect the actual situation.
The Supreme Constitutional Court ruled the law requiring the Attorney General and the Deputy Attorney General to submit financial disclosures as constitutional. The President's referral was dismissed. The law enhances transparency and accountability, promoting public trust in the institution. This decision is significant for maintaining the independence of the Attorney General.
The Ecclesiastical Court of Cyprus upheld the removal of three monks from the Monastery of St. Abakoum, based on findings from a committee. The removed monks will be assigned to different monastic communities. The decision is considered well-founded and acknowledged their violations. The Holy Synod hopes that the monks will sincerely repent for their actions.
Vladimir Putin is open to negotiations with Donald Trump for a ceasefire in Ukraine but rules out any compromise on territorial issues. Sources indicate that the Kremlin aims to limit Ukraine's armed forces and ensure the use of the Russian language. Biden's decision to allow the use of American missiles could complicate the peace agreement process. Putin may consider a neutrality agreement for Ukraine with international security guarantees.
A couple from Africa has been detained at Larnaca airport for over two months due to denied entry into the country. They applied for asylum, but their request was rejected. This situation has been deemed unacceptable by the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture, which states that such facilities are only suitable for temporary detention. The authorities are working to ensure humane living conditions for the detainees.
The Consumers' Association raises concerns about fuel prices in Nicosia, noting significant price discrepancies. They urge authorities to investigate the issue and highlight a lack of healthy competition. On November 14, price differences for petrol and diesel reached up to 14 cents per liter. The chairman warns of the ongoing market distortions.
Cyprus is facing difficulties in implementing the 15% tax on multinationals due to past controversial tax practices. Finance Minister Maki Keravnos is urging the immediate approval of the law before the year ends to avoid damaging the country's reputation. Concerns exist regarding the impact on Cyprus's ratings and economy. European rules and state aid are still obstacles to the progress of the legislation.
The Police has submitted a request for the installation of cameras at various points, such as city entrances and main roads, to detect serious crimes. The cameras will connect to police databases and recognize vehicle license plates. Various municipalities have already installed cameras in public areas for citizen safety. This installation is currently under review by the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection.
The police are investigating the causes of the triple fatal accident that occurred in Frenaros. A reenactment of the accident was conducted to draw safer conclusions and clarify the conditions of the incident. One factor being examined is the excessive speed of the vehicles involved, with brake marks found at the scene. Three young individuals lost their lives in the crash, while two others were seriously injured.
The driver of the fatal vehicle that killed a 20-year-old student may face serious charges. Ongoing police investigations suggest he will be charged with causing death due to reckless behavior and driving under the influence of alcohol. It is noted that many passengers were not wearing seatbelts. This incident has prompted discussions in the Transport Committee of Parliament regarding road fatalities.
Cyprus is facing issues with defective Takata airbags, which pose a risk to public safety. The recall process for these airbags is complex and needs improvement, especially for 'grey market cars' imported from outside the EU. The Minister of Transport stated that nearly 60% of vehicles in Cyprus have a broken information chain. Effective measures are needed to ensure the safety of drivers.