5 Minute News

last year

The strike in the concrete sector continues despite employers and unions accepting the Minister of Labor's proposal. The SEK emphasizes that the lack of agreement on overtime regulation leads to the continuation of the protests. Labor organizations are forced to extend the strike due to the employers' failure to accept all conditions. Any attempts at strike-breaking will be regarded as hostile and will be addressed accordingly.

The Water Development Department mourns the sudden passing of Stella Michail, a beloved team member. Their announcement expresses shock and deep sorrow for this tragedy. They extend their condolences to Stella's family and offer support. The date of the funeral will be announced later.

The efforts of the Minister of Labor to restore order in the ready-mixed concrete market seem to have a positive outcome. After approximately four weeks of strikes, employers and unions accepted the minister's mediation proposal. New compensation agreements, raises, and benefits for employees were agreed upon. Official signatures for the renewal of the Collective Agreement are expected in the coming days.

The low-pressure system “Bora” is expected to reach Cyprus on Tuesday in a weakened state. Local rain and isolated thunderstorms are anticipated for a couple of days. The temperature will drop slightly on Tuesday but is expected to rise again by Thursday. The weather is expected to improve significantly following the bad weather.

A police officer from the Larnaca Traffic Unit was injured in a traffic accident. The collision occurred while he was on duty near the roundabout at Larnaca airport. After the accident, the officer was transported to the hospital with injuries to his leg. His condition is being monitored as he remains hospitalized.

The Cyprus Association of Ready-Mixed Concrete Manufacturers accepts the proposal for overtime compensation and annual salary increases. They have also agreed to provide a one-time monetary payment to employees in 2024. However, they reserve the right to review the contract with legal advisors before signing. Overall, the agreement seems positive but requires further analysis.

In November, police issued 10,582 fines for various traffic offenses across Cyprus. Most violations were related to speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol. The police continue strict checks to prevent serious traffic accidents. Promoting proper road awareness is essential to reduce risks on the roads.

Workers from the SEK, PEO, and DEOK unions in the ready-mixed concrete sector approved the Minister of Labour's mediating proposal for the renewal of the Collective Agreement. The Minister has been informed about the results of the General Assemblies. This reflects a collaboration between workers and the government. The renewal could improve working conditions in the industry.

In Paphos, police arrested a 30-year-old driver following a chase. The driver failed to stop during a routine check and attempted to escape, prompting police to fire warning shots. Upon investigation, a small amount of drugs was found in his possession, and there was an outstanding court warrant against him. The man was arrested for offenses committed on the spot.

In Angelohori, Thessaloniki, a family crime occurred when a 46-year-old man killed his 60-year-old wife and injured their son. The incident escalated from an argument between the couple. The son was stabbed while attempting to intervene. The perpetrator was arrested by the police.

A 24-year-old man is hospitalized in the intensive care unit of Nicosia General Hospital after falling from a moving vehicle. He was initially taken to Larnaca General Hospital but was transferred due to a severe head injury, where he underwent a craniectomy. His condition is critical, and he is on a ventilator and sedated. The police are investigating the incident.

The article analyzes information from declassified KYP documents regarding the 1974 coup in Cyprus. It reveals that the KYP and its officials were unaware of the coup occurring on July 15. While not introducing new information, the documents confirm known details. The analysis continues by presenting events until the end of August 1974.

Jihadists and rebels have captured most of Aleppo, Syria's second largest urban center, including its airport. This operation resulted in over 320 fatalities, while Bashar al-Assad stated that his country is capable of defeating terrorists. Russia conducted airstrikes in the region, raising concerns in the international community. The rebels paraded in the streets and raised their flags at government buildings in Aleppo.

The business landscape in Cyprus is changing as 2024 comes to a close, with many deals in the banking and retail sectors. Entrepreneurs are keen on acquisitions to leverage growth opportunities. Notably, Eurobank's acquisition of the Hellenic Bank may reach up to €1.2 billion. These developments could increase market competition and impact consumers.

Cyprus is experiencing a significant upgrade in its relations with the United States, with important meetings and collaborations planned. However, internal political reactions may hinder this process. The government is trying to maintain good cooperation with the U.S., while the Foreign Minister explains the objectives of the foreign policy. The year 2024 is expected to be crucial for these relations.

Michalis Ioannidis discusses the role of the Monitoring Council for government work initiated by DISY, which aims to oversee government policies and submit proposals. He highlights that DISY, being in opposition, cannot directly solve citizens' problems but can offer solutions and exert pressure. There is an ideological closeness to the center-right government, but he notes a lack of effective utilization of economic dynamics for citizens' benefit. DISY positions itself as a party of substance that provides solutions for society.

The demand for domestic work raises concerns about the abuse of the elderly and the exploitation of domestic helpers. MP Rita Superman highlighted trafficking networks and state inadequacies during a session of the Labor Committee. The Democratic Rally aims to initiate a discussion to address this issue. The goal is to protect both elderly employers and domestic workers from organized networks.

Turkish businessmen are purchasing Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas, following instructions from Erdogan. They are also approaching Greek Cypriot owners to sell their properties, sometimes through a compensation committee. This situation contributes to the Turkification of the occupied areas and causes unrest in the construction industry. Arrests of usurpers by the Cypriot Republic have intensified the situation.

Football clubs have received approximately 13 million euros from the National Betting Authority over the past eleven years. These funds are used to support football teams and their academies. The Cyprus Sports Organization manages a portion of these revenues, which are distributed to various sports federations. Additionally, clubs have received specific amounts based on their needs over the years.

Kostas Kadis expresses readiness to serve as the new EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, feeling honored by the portfolio assigned to him. His priorities focus on sustainability, competitiveness, and the sustainable management of seas and fisheries. He emphasizes the importance of the EU's relationships with third countries. His experience as a minister and his preparation have given him confidence for the upcoming challenges.