New strict changes to the Italian Highway Code are in effect from Saturday. Fines are significantly increased for violations such as riding electric scooters without a helmet and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The new law also imposes severe penalties for abandoning pets on roads. The Italian Minister of Transport clarified that these penalties do not apply to the medical use of cannabis.
Isaac Andic, the founder of the Spanish clothing chain Mango, died in a hiking accident in Barcelona. The 71-year-old businessman fell into a ravine while hiking with his family. Mango announced his passing, and the family is in shock. Andic was the richest person in Catalonia, with an estimated wealth of 4.5 billion euros.
Donald Trump Jr. spoke about his relationship with Kimberly Guilfoyle, stating that they will continue to care for each other. He defended Guilfoyle after negative media coverage and expressed pride in her new role as U.S. Ambassador to Greece. Guilfoyle showed excitement for her new position and spoke positively about Greeks and their culture. The article highlights the couple's connection and Guilfoyle's commitment to her role.
Geo Pavlides Automotive has announced a new phone line for inquiries regarding Takata airbag recalls for Mazda Demio vehicles. The line will operate daily and on weekends, starting December 16, 2024. The recalls primarily concern vehicles imported as used from non-European Union countries. Interested parties are advised to contact only through this new line for any inquiries.
Energy Minister George Papakostas urges patience until drilling at the 'Electra' target takes place. While initial studies provide optimistic findings, the real situation can only be clarified through drilling. ExxonMobil believes that the quantities of natural gas that may be discovered are significant, potentially competing with other major sources in the region. Drilling is scheduled for January, right after another drilling in Egypt.
Violent clashes occurred on Friday night in Larnaca, Nicosia, and Limassol involving young people and police officers. There were 23 arrests, with 21 of them being minors. The youths caused damage and attacked the police with flares. The incidents appear to be related to December 13 and the controversial phrase 'All Cops Are Bastards.'
The first urban express route, X13, will start operating in Nicosia on December 17, 2024, providing improved transportation for citizens. It will run daily with hourly schedules, connecting important city points. The initial implementation will be a pilot phase to collect data for performance evaluation. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance the quality of public transport.
A 15-year-old is in critical condition in the hospital after a road accident in Larnaca. While riding a motorcycle, he lost control and crashed. He was taken to Larnaca General Hospital, where he was intubated and transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the accident.
The Cypriot economy has been upgraded to an 'A' rating by Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, indicating its stabilization and growth. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasizes that banks should respond to the sacrifices of the Cypriot people by lowering interest rates and supporting the economy. The upgrade is a result of collective efforts for transparency and responsible governance. Positive evaluations highlight the progress made in economic matters in Cyprus.
The Parliament is planning significant changes in the way the President is elected through constitutional amendments. These changes aim to modernize the functioning of the legislative body and include the appointment of a Deputy President. The government is also looking into regulating the absence process for MPs and implementing rules to make meetings more transparent. The discussion about the role of the Vice President continues, as the position has been vacant since 1963.
The government is introducing new regulations for Akamas, offering a 30% building coefficient and allowing small businesses to operate in residential areas. A new coastal tourist zone is being created, promoting small-scale hotel developments and agritourism. These changes aim to revitalize the area without competing with larger tourist developments. The Urban Planning Authority retains the discretion to adjust regulations according to local needs.
The government sent an informational note to coalition parties to assist them in preparing their speeches for the discussion of the state budget. This note covers 12 key policy areas, such as the economy, health, and education. It highlights the government's successes, including the upgrade of Cyprus's credit rating and the decrease in unemployment. Additionally, it discusses specific measures to support society and the middle class.
At the beginning of 2025, the last investigations regarding the scandal of the Monastery of Abbacum are expected to be completed. Authorities are looking into several cases, including allegations of financial misconduct and other crimes. The final report from the investigators will be submitted to the Legal Service for evaluation. The investigations also include allegations of sexual harassment.
The case regarding the murder of Tansou Cintan is reaching a critical stage, with 31-year-old Veizi Bandour as the main accused. The last witness for the prosecution testified before the Criminal Court, followed by cross-examination from the defense. The defense aims to challenge the evidence based on CCTV footage and the credibility of the witnesses. The accused confirmed that others in the wing claimed responsibility for the crime.
In 2024, the number of new asylum applications in Cyprus has significantly decreased, reaching 6,548, marking the lowest level in the past seven years. The zero arrivals of irregular migrants since May 2023 seem to have positively impacted this decline. The Ministry of Migration acknowledges that the situation is manageable for now, despite ongoing challenges in the region. Overall, the data from the past decade reflects the ongoing pressures of migration.
The government has decided to revoke golf course licenses if the compensation amount of €5 million is not paid within a specified timeframe. Currently, eight golf courses are at various stages of development, with permit holders having a deadline to pay in two installments. If payments are not made on time, the licenses will be canceled. The ministerial committee is also considering other requests for modifications to the golf development policy.