The desalination plant in the coastal area of Kouklion suffered almost total destruction from a fire that broke out. The Fire Department responded and managed to bring the blaze under control two hours later. Preliminary assessments suggest that the fire started in a storage area for flammable materials. Investigations into the cause of the fire will continue tomorrow morning.
An explosion occurred at a desalination plant in Koukλια, with the fire spreading quickly. Fortunately, there are no reports of injuries, as the workers managed to evacuate in time. Five fire trucks and volunteers have arrived at the scene to put out the fire. The fire appears to have started from a storage area of the plant.
Monk Nectarios Georgiou commented on the decision of the Six-Member Synod Court regarding the scandal at the Monastery of Osios Avvakoum, stating that defamation is the best advertisement. He mentioned a corrupt establishment that tries to eliminate those who resist it. He emphasized his belief in the truth and its defense until his last breath. He referred to conspiracies and pressures from corrupt entities.
Cypriot authorities have dismantled a human trafficking ring that organized sham marriages to help foreigners obtain legal residency status. Two men, one from Pakistan and one from India, were arrested and will remain in custody until their trial. The ring exploited vulnerable women from Romania, offering false promises of a better life. The investigation is ongoing to fully address the trafficking operation.
The Development Committee of Larnaca has decided to hold a protest against the government's decision to grant management of the port and marina to private entities for five years. The committee chairman and mayor, Andreas Vyras, expressed strong opposition, highlighting the risks of this decision. Coalition parties agree with the protest and have voiced their disagreement with government choices. The committee has scheduled meetings with the Port Authority and the Minister of Transport to discuss future actions.
Starting Sunday, December 8, a new European directive on liability for defective products will come into effect across EU member states. This directive aims to enhance consumers' ability to seek compensation for damages caused by such products. The rules will also cover products sold online and ease the burden of proof for victims. Additionally, there are plans for a public database containing court decisions on product liability to inform the public better.
Anita Dimitriou, the President of DISY, responded to government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis following his comments regarding former president Averof Neofytou. She emphasized that matters concerning DISY should remain within the party and that the focus should be on issues related to citizens and governance. Dimitriou highlighted the importance of avoiding confrontations and instead supporting the public. She pointed out the need for prioritization in the budget and the necessity for adjustments.
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announced the creation of a missile defense wall for the Aegean as part of the 'Agenda 2030'. This system aims to strengthen Greece's sovereignty, utilizing various islands as power units. During his speech, he emphasized the importance of the Hellenic Navy and the historical significance of naval battles in the Balkan Wars. He also expressed condolences for the loss of a Navy member during training.
In the session of the House of Representatives on December 5, 2024, 41 deputies were present, with 37 voting in favor of a constitutional amendment. The 4 who did not vote came from different parties. This session reflects the support of most parties for the proposed change. This process is important for the political landscape and future developments.
The European Union and Mercosur have finalized a free trade agreement, but a tough battle for approval awaits within the EU, particularly from France and Poland. Despite the objections, countries like Germany and Spain welcome the deal, hoping for increased exports. The President of the European Commission labeled it as the largest trade and investment partnership ever seen globally. After 25 years of negotiations, the outcome leaves room for future developments.
The Supreme Court criticized the authorities for their inaction regarding the asylum application of a Syrian man who had been held for over six months. Despite being deemed a danger to public order, no progress was made on his application. The applicant had traveled back to Syria due to an earthquake, and his alleged connections to terrorist organizations were not substantiated. The Court emphasized that this inaction is unacceptable and violates the applicant's rights.
The investigation into the death of 19-year-old Styliani Georgalli suggests that her death was likely caused by the airbag. Forensic experts confirm that the cause of death is the rupture of vital organs by a metallic object during the crash. Additionally, the investigation focuses on the type of airbag and the vehicle's manufacturing details. Findings indicate that the collision did not justify the fatal injuries sustained by Styliani.
Averof Neofytou responds to government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, claiming that the government cannot tolerate criticism and seeks only supporters. He criticizes the government for failing to understand and address citizens' issues, as the cost of living is skyrocketing. Neofytou emphasizes the need for responsible governance that listens to the people. The gap between the commentator and the responsible politician is what separates them.
Christos Kliridis considers the Parliament's decision to modify the Constitution with 37 votes, instead of the required 38, to be incorrect. He emphasized that a two-thirds majority is necessary for constitutional amendments. He also noted that previous instances cannot justify this decision. He suggests a new vote to ensure the correct majority.
A 55-year-old Greek-Cypriot was found guilty of raping his 14-year-old niece. The defendant committed the crime twice in 2021. The trial was held behind closed doors to protect the victim, and sentencing will be announced soon. Another similar case involving minors is also being examined by the court.
Anita Dimitriou, the President of the Parliament, took responsibility for the disruption that occurred during the session regarding the constitutional amendment. The vote on the bill was not valid as 38 votes were needed and only 37 were in favor. Despite objections, it was agreed that the approval is valid and will stand based on past incidents. The handling of the process led to strong reactions among the members of Parliament.
The Legal Service recommends that the pension benefits of former Auditor General Odysseas Michailidis be paid, responding to inquiries from the General Accountant. Despite legal restrictions regarding the dismissal of government officials, the opinion concludes that withholding the pension would violate the principle of proportionality. Overall, the process for paying the benefits is moving forward and is expected to be completed soon.
A lawyer from Nicosia was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison for conspiracy with a client to defraud a victim of money. The lawyer was found guilty of collecting €20,000, while his client received a 7-year sentence for defrauding the same victim out of €420,000. The court considered this conduct to be serious due to the lawyer's role in the justice system. The decision came after a lengthy court process with many adjournments.
Cyprus is trying to approve a new bill for the regulation of digital services following a warning from the EU. These regulations aim to protect users' rights, especially minors, and ensure transparency in digital platforms. There was a delay in promoting the bill, prompting the Legal Service to draw the Interior Ministry's attention. The new bill establishes rules for creating a safe online environment.
Christos Christofides commented on Konstantinos Letympiyotis' criticism of Averof Neofytou for not supporting Nikos Christodoulides in the Presidential Elections. He argued that if they were in the same party, there shouldn't be a gap in understanding and approach. Neofytou's lack of support for Christodoulides was expected and logical based on political norms. He concluded that it is essential to follow consistent logical structures in any activity.
In November, potato prices increased by 30.61% compared to October and by 57.21% compared to November 2023. These increases, along with high olive oil prices, make fried potatoes a luxury for many families. While the overall food prices decreased, comparing this year to last shows an increase. Significant reductions were also noted in fresh vegetables and other products.
Ersin Tatar claims that the Greek-Cypriot side is asking for the opening of crossing points in military areas, which he considers unacceptable. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the sovereignty of the Turkish Cypriots and creating two separate sovereign states. The Turkish Cypriot side proposes opening a 'border gate' at Mia Milia, in contrast to Greek Cypriot proposals. Tatar dismisses the criticism and states that negotiations will proceed with the support of Turkey.
The first phone call between Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and elected US President Donald Trump focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The leaders discussed enhancing relations in areas such as defense, economy, and humanitarian aid. The request for closer collaboration and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region was also prioritized. Christodoulides congratulated Trump on his election, emphasizing the desire for further cooperation.
Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis criticized Averof Neofytou for his statements about the Chistodoulides government’s failures. He claimed that bias and lack of sincerity harm politics. Letymbiotis highlighted the government's achievements in the economy and diplomacy. He emphasized that Neofytou's ambitions are personal and do not reflect the reality faced by the citizens.
The government continues to maintain a good relationship with Pindarou while simultaneously proceeding with economic benefits and digital reforms. The government spokesperson expressed a desire for cooperation with all political parties, stating that decisions should be based on individuals' capabilities. There are also moves from Pindarou aimed at creating impressions of a party reunion. However, meetings do not seem to bring about significant changes to the status quo.
The Greek Ministry of Education is piloting the International Baccalaureate in five public high schools starting September 2026. This program will allow students to enter higher education without relying on traditional national exams. The Minister of Education stated that the introduction of the International Baccalaureate will provide more educational opportunities for young people. The IB is globally recognized for its educational quality.
Individuals with autism are still hospitalized at Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital due to a lack of appropriate facilities. The new specialized structure called 'Bridge' is expected to operate by March 2025, but it won't be able to meet all needs. The director of Mental Health Services highlights that the state is failing to manage the situation. Procedures for the operation of the 'Bridge' are advancing, and admission criteria for individuals with autism are being established.
The investigation into the escape of a lifer hairdresser from prison is ongoing, focusing on the responsibilities of the prison guards. Those involved in the safe transfer of the inmate are facing scrutiny. Regulations regarding prisoner's outings have been updated in response to the escape, which caused shock within the police and prison systems. The leadership of the police has changed as a result of these events.
The Cypriot government is reconsidering its decision to grant the management of the Larnaca port and marina to private entities. There are ideas to assign the management to an organized body related to the city instead. The announcement of €25-30 million for projects at the port and marina raises concerns among citizens, who oppose the management by private parties. The President is in constant contact with the mayor of Larnaca and assures that there is no reason for worry.
The Minister of Interior announced new procedures for issuing building permits, reducing processing times to 40 and 80 days depending on the number of housing units. Strict inspections will also be carried out during construction to prevent illegal practices and ensure compliance with permit conditions. Under the new system, random checks will be implemented, and completion of necessary documentation by developers will be required. The aim is to simplify and expedite the licensing process for constructions.
The Synodical Court made serious decisions regarding three monks from the Monastery of St. Abbacum, resulting in their removal from office. The charges against them included severe accusations such as immorality, fraud, and perjury. The former abbot, Nectarios, was found guilty of many of these charges, including faking miracles. Despite the charges, the monks denied the accusations leveled against them.