Education Minister Athena Michailidou responded to the OELMEK letter, stating that its leadership has lost its composure and is misapproaching the issues. She emphasized that the ministry is working for a better educational system and has already addressed many long-standing problems. Michailidou called for OELMEK to engage in the dialogue process for the new teacher assessment to achieve common views. She stressed the necessity for progress and dialogue in education.
MP Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis retracted earlier statements that were interpreted as criticism of the Greek Prime Minister, stating they were misinterpreted. He expresses support for Kyriakos Mitsotakis's policies, especially regarding Cyprus-Greece relations and the Greek-Turkish dialogue. He also raises concerns about Turkey's questioning of Greek sovereignty. The Democratic Party reacted negatively to Hadjiyiannis's earlier remarks.
A person was sent to a psychiatric hospital without being heard by the court. The case was reviewed by the Supreme Court, which ruled that the process followed was flawed. The applicant claimed that the decision of the District Court was illegal and violated principles of natural justice. Ultimately, the applicant was granted permission to seek the annulment of the hospitalization order.
The discussion regarding the construction of a median on Larnaca Avenue has sparked reactions from MPs and business owners concerned about potential economic harm. Authorities argue that the median is essential for road safety. The new design includes more lanes, pedestrian crossings, and bike paths. Stakeholders are asking for public consultations before the construction proceeds.
Today’s meeting of the parliamentary health committee was marked by intense disagreements regarding the financial incentives received by public doctors. A dispute arose over the existence of a second part in an independent study that suggests a larger amount than what was announced. Doctors argue that the amount should be €4.7 million, contrary to the €2.5 million mentioned in the study. In the end, doctors felt vindicated by the researcher’s admission of a second part in the study.
A 35-year-old man was sentenced to 13 years in prison for his involvement in a cocaine trafficking ring, after admitting to serious charges. He was found in possession of nearly 7 kilograms of cocaine and had collaborated with another co-defendant to distribute the drugs. The court highlighted his significant and aggravating role in the drug distribution. Their arrest occurred during a coordinated operation by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit on October 13, 2023.
The OELMEK has launched a strong attack on the Minister of Education, Athina Michailidou, with a stern letter requesting the resolution of various pending issues. They state that their patience has run out and that the situation can no longer be tolerated. A deadline has been set until January 2025, with warnings of strong reactions if progress is not made. The letter also references previous statements by the Minister that do not reflect reality.
Journalist Evdokía Loizou will receive €1.6 million in compensation from RIK due to issues caused by her working conditions. This decision came from the parliamentary committee on Interior Affairs, which plans further investigation into the responsibilities regarding the handling of the case. There are concerns that better management could have avoided the need for such compensation. Additionally, there is mention of legal fees and other expenses that could increase the overall cost.
Coffee prices are rising due to high wholesale prices in international markets. In Cyprus, an increase of about 4.5-5% is expected, while in Greece it has already reached 20%. The president of the Cyprus Consumers Association mentions that prices will be affected by new coffee shipments. The causes include drought in Brazil and geopolitical factors.
The 29-year-old suspect was released by the court due to insufficient evidence. The criminal act is believed to be linked to the theft of $506,000 in cryptocurrency during a video call. The 21-year-old complainant stated he was pressured by the suspect to return the lost funds. The case is under investigation by the Cyber Crime Unit.
The DISY party expressed strong opposition to comments made by MP Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis against the Greek Prime Minister. DISY's statement emphasizes that Hadjiyiannis's remarks do not represent the party and reaffirms its support for the Greek government. The importance of strategic cooperation between Cyprus and Greece is highlighted. Hadjiyiannis, on his part, questioned the Greek government's stance towards Turkey.
Giannis Giannakis, a former Commissioner of Volunteerism, is left without a lawyer after his attorney, Giannis Polychronis, withdrew due to disagreements with the prosecution. The withdrawal occurred after tensions arose during the proceedings, questioning the prosecution's statements regarding the witness. The next hearing is set for December 10, and Giannakis faces eight charges related to forgery.
The police are on alert due to the football match between Omonia and Legia Warsaw. The issuance of fan cards for Polish supporters has been suspended due to concerns about potential disturbances. About 600 Polish fans are in Cyprus, with only 150 of them considered hooligans. The police are conducting patrols to prevent any unlawful behavior.
Following the meeting between doctors and the Minister of Health, prospects seem promising but with no definitive outcome. The two sides exchanged views on financial aspects and the years that need to be considered. The Minister will review the proposals and they will re-engage in discussions. The situation remains unclear and will continue to be discussed in the Parliament.
President Nicos Christodoulides stated that discussions with the U.S. are ongoing to enable Cyprus to become a NATO member. He noted that Turkey's objections prevent Cyprus from pursuing this status, which would benefit the National Guard. The importance of enhancing the deterrent capabilities of the country and the strategic geographical advantages of Cyprus were emphasized. Collaborations with the EU for upgrading strategic infrastructures are also part of these discussions.
Petrolina has acquired ExxonMobil Cyprus, purchasing the 68 service stations for €48.6 million. The acquisition is expected to create positive prospects and synergies for Petrolina in the Cypriot petroleum market. The agreement includes a 10% upfront payment, with the remainder due upon completion of the transaction. The acquisition will be funded through bank financing.
A request from a law firm in Limassol to cancel a search warrant related to the golden passport case has been denied. The investigation focuses on the existence of evidence pertaining to criminal offenses including conspiracy and forgery. The police discovered electronic data on the firm's server related to the citizenship applications. There are suspicions that some of this data may have been altered or deleted.
This morning, a new meeting will take place between the Health Minister and doctors to discuss proposals for financial incentives. The 48-hour strike caused inconvenience for patients and issues with emergency services. Doctors have indicated the possibility of continuing the strike if a deal is not reached. The discussion in Parliament is expected to resume due to a request from AKEL.
The monks of Abakoum, after their dismissal, accuse Metropolitan Neophytos of mishandling cases of other clergy. They cite instances where other clerics did not face dismissal despite their misconduct. They complain that their punishment is harsher, even though there were no sexual acts alleged against them. The monks seemed to expect support from the Metropolitan due to their prior good relations.
The Cypriot Regulatory Authority (RAEK) and the Greek Regulatory Authority (RAAEY) decided not to approve the recovery of 36 million euros by ADMIE. However, RAAEY seems to be reconsidering this decision despite RAEK's opposition. If RAAEY diverges, the burden may fall entirely on Greek consumers. Additionally, pressures are mounting on ADMIE due to delays in advancing the project.
U.S. lawmakers are concerned about Hamas's ties with Turkey and have requested a classified briefing from the Biden administration regarding possible moves of Hamas's leadership from Qatar to Ankara. The letter sent to Secretary of State Blinken raises concerns about Hamas potentially establishing a base in a NATO member country. They highlight that Turkey might be providing support to the organization, raising worries about U.S. national security.