Physics, Chemistry, and Biology teachers express concern over their subjects being sidelined in Secondary Education and students' low performance in international assessments. They note that since the last curriculum revision in 2015, the situation has worsened. Despite promises and meetings with officials, necessary steps for the improvement of Natural Sciences have not been taken. They urge the Ministry to take action and implement substantial changes in the education system.
Nikos Anastasiades, Averof Neofytou, and Annita Dimitriou met for dinner at a restaurant in Paralimni. Anastasiades emphasized that the gathering was about friendship rather than political discussions. Neofytou highlighted the need for unity within DISY and the responsibility of the opposition. They all agreed that their good relationships are based on their shared history and party affiliation.
A strong earthquake measuring 7.0 struck near the northern California coast today. Its epicenter was located in the Pacific Ocean at a depth of 10 kilometers. A tsunami warning was issued, affecting areas north of San Francisco. Authorities evacuated the San Francisco Zoo and advised residents to stay away from the shores.
A balcony from an apartment building in Limassol collapsed, causing damage to two parked cars. The incident occurred in the Neapolis area, fortunately with no pedestrians present at the time of the fall. Authorities, including police and fire services, quickly arrived at the scene to manage the situation. Additional safety measures will be implemented tomorrow.
The defense of the sergeant accused of causing Panagiotis Giannios' death claims it was due to drowning, citing a lack of immediate assistance after his fall from a helicopter. The neurosurgeon testifying stated that if immediate help had been provided, Giannios could have survived. The trial proceedings included tensions during the cross-examination of the witness. The judge intervened to ensure the smooth flow of the proceedings.
After some commotion, a few lawmakers rushed back to the assembly to vote on the constitutional amendment. The amendment passed with 37 votes, whereas 38 are needed for it to be considered valid. However, it was confirmed that similar instances have occurred in the past and the decision will be enforced. The President of the Parliament, Annita Demetriou, expressed her dissatisfaction with the events.
The Parliament is attempting to vote on a constitutional amendment concerning the right to a safe and sustainable environment. However, there were not enough members present for the vote to take place. A proposal was made to suspend the session until the next morning, which led to some disputes. Currently, there is a discussion about a short break so that some members can return for the vote.
In the Nicosia Criminal Court, the 37-year-old defendant in the murder case of Dorotheos Dimitriadis appeared emotional and expressive. He claimed that Dorotheos attacked him and that he was trying to protect his family. He also expressed grievances about how the investigators questioned him, accusing them of treating him differently. The defendant emphasized the importance of his children, stressing that his actions were taken for their safety.
The Minister of Finance, Makis Keraunos, announced the signing of an agreement for upgrading the salary scales A1, A2, and A5 in the public sector. This agreement was reached in cooperation with the unions PASYDY, SEK, and PEO. The aim is to improve the economic situation of low-paid public employees in accordance with the state's financial capabilities. This initiative seeks to enhance the distribution of generated wealth.
The police are investigating the incidents that occurred after the match between Apollon and Ethnikos Achna. Two suspects were arrested and brought to court, where their initial six-day detention request was reduced to two days. The first suspect claimed he participated to ensure the protest was peaceful, while the second refused to answer questions. The police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify other participants.
The sale of alcohol to minors is a significant issue, as 85% of vendors in Cyprus fail to comply with the law. Vendors rarely ask for age verification, with only 1% requesting identification. This situation highlights the need for raising awareness among young people about the dangers of alcohol consumption at a young age. This research comes from the University of Technology and the results are concerning.
The police are taking measures to ensure the safety of MP Christos Christofides and his family following his corruption allegations. Police patrols outside his residence have been underway for six weeks. The police offer additional protection advice and remain vigilant due to the seriousness of the allegations. Christofides has met with police representatives to discuss security measures.
The Ministry of Social Welfare announced the payment dates for benefits related to Christmas. The Social Welfare Services and other relevant agencies have arranged for timely payments of social benefits. This initiative aims to support citizens during the holiday season. Specific dates were provided to inform the beneficiaries.
The InterNations survey revealed the 53 countries with the lowest and highest cost of living. Vietnam was highlighted as the cheapest country, while Canada was identified as the most expensive. Cyprus ranked 38th among the countries surveyed. Residents in Vietnam generally express satisfaction with their financial situation.
Metropolitan Isaiah submitted a memo to the police but did not answer 40 questions during his deposition. He was accompanied by his lawyer and reserved the right to return if necessary. Investigators will study the memo and subsequently assess the existing evidence. The case file will be discussed with the Legal Service for guidance.
Building and town planning permits will now be issued within 40 days, significantly reducing the waiting time compared to the previous process. Permits will be granted within 20 days unless there are objections from the District Administration Organizations. The responsibility for applications lies with the planners, who must ensure their correctness. Inspections will be conducted by auditors and the District Administration Organizations to ensure compliance.
Deaf individuals in Cyprus face serious risks during emergencies, as they have no means to call for help. In situations like fires or medical emergencies, they cannot communicate with authorities if they are alone or in remote areas. A representative highlighted the need for special applications that would facilitate this communication. These applications could also assist other groups of citizens facing similar challenges.
President Christodoulides announced that, following the backlash over the management of Larnaca's port and marina by private entities, the government is considering new decisions. He called the mayor of Larnaca and assured that there will be new announcements. He emphasized the need for cooperation with the municipality for the development of the port and marina for the benefit of the city. Changes to the initial decision are not ruled out, but he highlighted that development is a priority.
The Ministry of Labour announced that pensions and benefits will be paid before Christmas, specifically on December 16, 2024. Necessary arrangements have been made for the disbursement of pensions and benefits under its responsibility. Special monthly pensions and pensions from the Social Security Fund will be deposited into beneficiaries' accounts on the same day. This initiative is expected to provide financial support to beneficiaries during the festive season.
Former Auditor General Odysseas Michailidis has released a letter to the Parliament regarding the benefits received by President Christodoulides during his time as Government Spokesman. He claims the President has unlawfully received public funds and is hiding behind legal opinions. Michailidis emphasizes the need for transparency and states that citizens can no longer tolerate such maneuvers. The letter unveils doubts and inconsistencies regarding the management of public spending.
The article discusses patients' complaints about medical service provided by doctors and hospitals. It highlights cases where doctors refused to provide patients with information or appointments. Accessibility issues for disabled individuals and delays in service at Accident and Emergency Departments are also raised. These complaints reveal distrust and miscommunication between patients and healthcare professionals.
The president of the British Museum, George Osborne, stated that progress has been made in negotiations with Greece regarding the Parthenon Sculptures, although there is still distance to cover before a deal is reached. There is a suggestion for Greece to lend archaeological treasures in exchange. However, he emphasized that a law change is needed for the permanent return of the sculptures, which they do not seek. The British government's approach appears to be changing, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer showing more openness in managing the issue.
As winter begins, hospitals are seeing an influx of patients due to seasonal infections, primarily affecting the elderly and children. The situation is particularly challenging in the Emergency Department where patients are waiting for hours. Experts emphasize the importance of following protective measures and looking after the health of vulnerable groups. Similar increases are noted in other European countries as well.
Anita Dimitriou, Averof Neofytou, and Nicos Anastasiades are set to attend a gathering in Paralimni alongside other party officials. While such meetings are common during festive periods, it raises questions about the dynamics between the three and their political positions. Some voices suggest that these public gatherings should not be misinterpreted as signs of unity, but rather as communication tactics. The underlying issues in their relations persist, according to party insiders.
The conflict between the Education Minister and OELMEK regarding teacher evaluations is escalating. OELMEK accuses Minister Athena Michailidou of inefficiency and spreading false statements. They emphasize their desire for a modern evaluation system and criticize the ministry's proposals. The situation will be further discussed in a conference scheduled for December.
The Data Protection Commissioner raises concerns about the use of cameras in cars for recording traffic incidents. She emphasizes that recording images and sounds requires the consent of the affected individuals and that continuous recording without restrictions could infringe their rights. A legal framework for regulating this process is currently lacking in Cyprus. The Office's position on the use of cameras is negative, with conditions for their use in public spaces.
Retail business owners are concerned about the upcoming implementation of e-kalathi, with the Ministry of Commerce planning its launch for December 20. Retailers are requesting conditions for the system to operate, fearing that mistakes could harm their reputation. An emergency meeting has been convened to discuss their concerns and seek solutions. This issue has caused significant disruption in the market, particularly during the busiest shopping period of the year.
Between 2011 and 2020, 71 earthquakes were recorded in Cyprus, which fall within the normal seismic activity of the region. The Geological Survey Department indicates that recent earthquakes do not signal concerns for larger tremors. Notably felt was the earthquake on September 4, 2023, measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale, as well as other significant quakes in the past. Authorities closely monitor seismic activity.