An earthquake occurred on Monday night in Limassol, causing concern among residents. The quake measured 3.7 on the Richter scale and was located 21 kilometers southeast of the city. Many people reported feeling the tremor in various areas. Authorities are providing updates on the situation.
A man in Ayia Napa was convicted for indecent acts against tourists. His excuse of 'hormonal imbalances' was rejected by the court. His sentence was increased from five months to nine months in prison. The court emphasized that such actions are unacceptable in a civilized society.
Many areas in Cyprus experienced power outages on Monday night due to two failures in the medium voltage system of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC). One failure was located in the Famagusta district, with repairs progressing quickly. The second failure, affecting the Limassol and Larnaca districts, was caused by a truck that cut power lines. The EAC is working to restore electricity as soon as possible.
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, has revealed his long-standing struggle with drug and alcohol addiction, leading to extreme spending and legal troubles. Despite his father's promises not to intervene, he was granted a presidential pardon after facing charges of tax fraud and other offenses. His addictions have profoundly affected his family and his life, as he has publicly acknowledged his difficulties. He now hopes to embark on a new path focusing on painting.
Negotiations for the renewal of the collective agreement in the ready-mix concrete sector have failed, as 22 out of 30 companies did not authorize the Association to sign the agreement. Consequently, the Association was dissolved, meaning each company will negotiate individually for its employees. This development contradicts the optimism expressed earlier by the head of KEVE regarding a forthcoming signing of the agreement. Reactions from trade unions and the Labor Ministry's stance are now awaited.
The Administrative Court upheld the legality of the Competition Protection Commission's decision imposing a €1.5 million fine on the Pancyprian Dairy Farmers Organization for unfair competition and unfair pricing. The organization had initially appealed the decision, but its appeal was rejected. The court found the charges to be legitimate and related to violations of unfair competition laws. Farmers are now required to comply with the Commission's decisions.
Stella Michail, a 36-year-old mother of two, suddenly passed away one day after giving birth to her second child. She suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after the delivery, and despite the doctors' efforts, she could not be revived. The autopsy did not reveal the causes of her death, and an investigation by the police has commenced. The Cypriot Presidency expressed their deep sorrow for the loss of their colleague.
The police have issued arrest warrants related to a quadruple murder attempt that occurred in Nicosia, where five Syrians attacked four others. The injured, aged 17, 21, 24, and 44, are hospitalized in serious condition but are out of danger. The attack is linked to a feud between two Syrian families that seemed to have calmed down but has now escalated again. Investigations are ongoing, and the assailants are still at large.
The Pancyprian Association of Ready-Mix Concrete Manufacturers seems to be heading towards dissolution following a tumultuous General Assembly. There was significant backlash from the members, resulting in many resignations and departures. Specifically, around 10-15 members left, and 4 out of the 9 Board members resigned. These developments may lead to the disassociation of the Association from KEVE.
A 22-year-old was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old girl, as well as for kidnapping and drug use. The case was heard before the Limassol District Court, which deemed the girl's testimony reliable. The defendant claimed that the testimony was erroneous, but the Appeals Court rejected his appeal. The incidents occurred during a meeting outside the minor's home.
The government's decision to hand over the management of Larnaca's port and marina to private entities has sparked significant reactions among local stakeholders. The Ad Hoc Committee has expressed concerns about the future of development plans, calling for better communication from the government. Despite a good working relationship with the minister, stakeholders feel discussions should have occurred prior to the decision. The minister believes that with proper collaboration, concerns can be effectively addressed.
The hearings for the quadruple fatality case continue with the testimony of civil engineer Thrasos Afamis. Issues of visibility and speed limits on Yanou Kranioti Street, characterized as an urban roadway, were examined. Afamis explained that the speed limit is set at 50 km/h, and visibility is about 70 meters. The road serves adjacent developments and includes traffic-controlled pedestrian crossings.
Tension among workers in the ready-mix concrete sector is easing after a few isolated incidents. Employers are requesting the final agreement text from the Ministry of Labor, which has not yet been sent. The Ministry emphasizes that it has provided the documents to the Association, and the employers' stance is unclear. Currently, developments are expected from the meeting of the Association at the CCCI.
The Meteorological Service issued a yellow warning for strong storms and wind gusts due to the Bora weather phenomenon. Although the system has weakened, local rain and isolated strong storms are expected. Rain intensity may vary between 35 and 55 millimeters per hour. The warning is valid from Tuesday morning until Tuesday evening.
Early this morning in Nicosia, a serious murder attempt occurred between two groups of Syrians. Four individuals, including one minor, were injured seriously. The assailants came from Limassol and attacked a residence before fleeing the scene. The police are investigating the incident, and the injured parties are providing testimonies.
Ramona Philip reflects on her past feelings of vanity and grandiosity. Celebrating her 48th birthday, she recalls a candid confession she made 14 years ago. This confession highlights her personal growth and self-awareness. It is a story of personal change and acknowledging her flaws.
A serious case of armed robbery and arson is under investigation in Nicosia. Three individuals entered a kiosk and threatened the employee with a gun, firing a warning shot at the floor. They stole the cash register and fled in a stolen vehicle, which they later abandoned and set on fire. The police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspects.
The Green Movement states that neither Odysseas Michailidis intends to join them nor do they plan to join any new political parties. They are preparing an event honoring Michailidis for the International Anti-Corruption Day. Additionally, they emphasize their support for him in the fight against corruption and mention a conspiracy aimed at his dismissal. Cyprus continues to rank low on the Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International.
MP Charalambos Theophampou supports euthanasia based on his personal experience. He acknowledges that the lack of palliative care leads more people to choose euthanasia. He emphasizes the importance of legislation to address human suffering and highlights the difference between euthanasia and assisted dying. He hopes the proposed bill will be discussed in Parliament soon.
The police are investigating a case of attempted murder in Nicosia, where five individuals broke into a house in Strovolos and attacked the occupants with bats, knives, and axes. Four out of six occupants were injured and taken to the hospital with serious but stable injuries. The assailants fled the scene, and the police collected evidence. The condition of the injured parties is serious but not life-threatening.
During the concrete workers' strike, incidents occurred that led to clashes and injuries. The situation escalated, and authorities are looking into the events. This strike seems to have caused tension and conflicts. The situation is ongoing, and more information is expected.
Salaries and pensions for government employees are expected to be paid on December 20. The 13th salary and pensions will be disbursed on December 27. This decision has been approved by the Minister of Finance. Payments will be transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts within 24 hours of the specified dates.
This year's Black Friday saw a slight increase in store traffic, mainly due to the payment of salaries and changes in weather that encouraged winter clothing purchases. There was a shift in consumer preferences, with more shoppers opting for clothing and footwear over technological products. However, this year's discounts do not compete with the famous Black Friday deals in the USA, which might concern shop owners. Following Black Friday, Cyber Monday is expected to draw the attention of Cypriots towards online shopping.
The Association of Ready-Mixed Concrete Manufacturers decided not to sign the new collective agreement, leading to the continuation of the strike. There are concerns about potential disturbances at factories, as some employers may seek to resume production. Unions have warned that any action to undermine the strike will be seen as hostile. They call on the public to condemn this stance from the employers.
The Meteorological Department expects the arrival of the BORA weather phenomenon tonight, but it will reach Cyprus weakened. During the day, the weather will be mostly clear, with isolated rainfall expected in the mountains in the afternoon. By evening, clouds and showers or thunderstorms are anticipated, especially along the western coasts. A slight drop in temperature is expected, but improvement is forecasted by Thursday.
Ersin Tatar announced that the informal five-party meeting will take place in late January, but there is no further information regarding the UN's next steps. Nicosia is awaiting the visit of Rosemary DiCarlo to the island and the trilateral meeting prior to the five-party meeting. Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kumbos emphasized the need for activation and dialogue, but he is uncertain about the final outcome. Both Greek and Turkish authorities are not informed of specific meeting dates.
Restarting the construction industry in Cyprus is proving to be difficult due to a recent strike. Although the mediation proposal was accepted, delays are expected to particularly impact residential projects. Property prices may rise due to additional delays in concrete production. This has direct implications for home buyers and renters in the housing market.
AKEL proposes mandatory inspections of summer private schools by the Ministry of Education. The bill aims to ensure that inspections occur at least once a year. This regulation is proposed as an amendment to the law on private schools. It is expected to be discussed in Parliament soon.
Winter brings seasonal infections, making it important to keep our immune system healthy. Key foods to consume include olive oil, nuts, and fruits, while we should avoid salt, fried foods, and caffeine. Probiotics can help boost our body's defenses. Moderate consumption and a good diet are essential for our protection.
Low-income individuals in Cyprus face increased housing costs, needing 19.2% of their disposable income for housing in 2023. In contrast, those with higher incomes only spend 11.6%. The percentage of households with delays in rent and utility bills is also worryingly high. EU countries show significant variation in housing expenses, with Greece and Cyprus experiencing high rates of delays.
The bill concerning common residential buildings in Cyprus lacks sufficient fire safety provisions, threatening the lives of residents. The Fire Department had submitted recommendations, but they were not considered during the bill's submission. High-rise buildings are not regularly inspected for fire safety, raising concerns that alterations to buildings may hinder firefighters' access. It is crucial for management committees to take action for the protection of residents.
The government has decided to assign the management of Larnaca port to a private entity, separating the operations of the port and marina. This move aims to enhance the regulatory role of the Cyprus Ports Authority and promote free competition. Private managers will benefit from profits without obligations for development projects. The staff at the port will remain under new management, with some job losses anticipated.