Hagia Sophia is revealing underground structures that are now beginning to be cleaned and made accessible to the public. The cleaning of the caves and tunnels beneath the monument will take a year. Professor Dikert stated that the archaeological wonders of Hagia Sophia, which have been neglected for centuries, will soon be showcased to the public. These efforts will enhance interest in the monument.
There has been a confrontation between the government and AKEL regarding the recent pension increases. The Minister of Labor stated that the increases are the largest in the last 30 years, while AKEL argues that they are due to legislation in place since 1980. The government is attempting to present itself as responsible for the increases, while AKEL emphasizes that these are not generous gifts but well-planned measures. This situation creates tensions as both sides hold differing views on political responsibility.
The police are investigating an attempted murder case against an officer following violent incidents in Limassol that occurred before the AEL – Apollon match. An officer was injured when unknown individuals threw flares at police escorting the team. Despite the tensions, the match proceeded normally with 5,000 fans present without further incidents. Authorities are conducting investigations to address accountability and improve security measures.
The police in Limassol are facing criticism for the failure of measures taken during a football match. Although there were no incidents in the stadium, a group of hooligans exploited gaps in the planning and caused vandalism. An administrative inquiry has already been ordered to investigate possible weaknesses and responsibilities. This situation highlights the need for better assessment of conditions before such events.
A new bill makes mediation mandatory for financial disputes up to €10,000 before proceeding to court. This aims to quickly resolve minor disputes and reduce court congestion. Additionally, mediators will be required to complete training to register in the Mediators Registry. This new regulation is expected to bring positive changes to the dispute resolution process in the country.
The Limassol police have initiated an administrative investigation regarding the incidents that occurred during the Limassol derby. Authorities are examining potential mistakes in the policing operation's planning and the disciplinary responsibilities of the officers. A series of statements has begun from the force members involved in the operation. Attention is also focused on the placement of riot control units and the MMAD in the area.
There are serious concerns about security in the occupied ports of Cyprus following the entry of an assassin from Turkey intending to kill a banker. Authorities report that only 10% of trucks are checked by X-ray machines at the Famagusta port. The People's Party is calling for immediate measures to enhance security. Crime is reportedly on the rise in the occupied areas, highlighting the urgent need to address these issues.
A man was found dead on a Cypriot commercial ship docked in Copenhagen's Nordhavn harbor. The police confirmed that there are no signs of criminal activity, and the relatives of the deceased have not been notified. The vessel 'Alma' had departed from Lithuania and arrived in the Danish capital on Thursday. The police investigation is ongoing.
The government is establishing the Artists' Registry and the Artistic Sponsorship to support artists in Cyprus. The bill has been approved and is expected to be presented to Parliament in 2025. This initiative is a response to long-standing demands from artists and aims to create a framework for supporting artistic activity. With these measures in place, artists will be able to seek funding and support.
The healthcare system is in crisis due to an influx of patients with seasonal infections. Many patients have been transferred from public hospitals to private ones for treatment, as public hospitals are overcrowded. The Ministry of Health is monitoring the situation and taking measures to provide more beds. The activity of viruses, such as RSV, is high, affecting mainly children and the elderly.
The Minister of Labor has announced pension increases that will take effect in January 2025. The basic pension will rise from €483.77 to €512.50, while the minimum pension will increase from €411.20 to €435.62. This is the largest increase since 1996, reflecting the positive trajectory of the Cypriot economy. These increases aim to improve citizens' daily lives and strengthen pension adequacy.
The Cabinet decided to increase pensions by nearly 6% as part of efforts to strengthen wages and the economy. Additionally, topics discussed included the establishment of an artists' registry and the introduction of mediation for disputes up to €10,000. President Christodoulides emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to the society. The decisions are expected to be announced on January 29.
The use of a maritime flare at the basketball court is considered attempted murder, according to Justice Minister Marios Charitsiotis. Investigations are focused on identifying those responsible for the flare's discharge and the damages caused. The actions of the police during the incident are also being examined. The minister stated that bills to combat violence in stadiums are being prepared.
A maritime flare was thrown at the police officer escorting the Apollon team's bus. The incident occurred near the hotel where the team's delegation was staying. Fans had gathered in the area to cheer on the players before the match. The match will be held without spectators at the Alpha Mega stadium.
Authorities arrested three individuals suspected of being involved in a network issuing illegal residence permits for domestic helpers in Cyprus. The crimes under investigation include conspiracy, document forgery, and extortion. The arrested individuals were brought before a court, which approved their detention for five days. Investigations are ongoing with the assistance of relevant agencies.
The first regional dog shelter for the municipalities of Nicosia is expected to be licensed by the first half of 2025. This initiative aims to improve the management of stray dogs, but the licensing processes are progressing slowly. Local authorities hope to establish at least six shelters in total. The issue of animal euthanasia has been heavily debated, with many animal welfare organizations opposing it.
During incidents at the 'Nikos Solomonides' stadium, a naval flare landed on a police officer's motorcycle without injuring him. The AEL fan club reported vandalism by Apollo supporters. The police have launched an investigation into the incident and urge the state to pass fan-related legislation. The spokesperson emphasized the need for accountability and potential consequences.
The Health Insurance Organization is implementing a new plan that provides incentives and disincentives for gynecologists, aimed at reducing unnecessary cesarean sections in Cyprus. Gynecologists can receive bonuses if they keep the number of cesareans within specified limits, while exceeding those limits can lead to reductions in their earnings of up to 35%. The plan will only apply to uncomplicated cesarean sections, and full implementation is expected after the completion of guidelines in 2025.
Ersin Tatar is attempting to create a new participation format for the informal multilateral meeting on the Cyprus issue, aiming to keep Britain out of the negotiations. Nicosia countered by emphasizing the importance of British presence and clarified its position as an interested party. Tatar announced that the meeting will take the form of 4+1+1, proposing an approach focused on cooperation between the two communities and the guarantor powers. Despite the challenges, Tatar asserts that the Turkish Cypriot side will continue to seek collaboration and dialogue.
The escape of a 49-year-old Swedish fugitive from a private clinic in Larnaca has raised serious questions about police procedures. The involvement of his lawyer and a police officer in the escape has highlighted issues of security and control over detainees. Investigators are looking into the materials found on the fugitive's mobile phone, which include photographs that might serve as evidence. The handling of this case raises concerns about police protocols.
Next week, the dismantling of the fence set up to curb migration flows will begin. The government decided to take this action after an evaluation showed that the fence did not yield the expected results. Meanwhile, many Syrian refugees have requested to withdraw their asylum applications, wishing to return to their homeland. The aim is to improve the legal employment process and reduce illegal migration by 2025.
The gun used in the attempted murder in Agia Fylla remains missing despite extensive searches. The alleged perpetrator, a 25-year-old, and his 20-year-old girlfriend were brought before the Court for custody. The suspect reportedly fired at the victim, injuring him in the leg. While the vehicle used for the escape has been found, the gun has still not been located.
The file concerning allegations against Metropolitan Isaias has been referred to the Legal Service. The investigative team has completed its work and submitted the findings to the legal officials. In the coming days, other cases related to the Monastery of Abbacum will also be reviewed, including allegations of labor exploitation and sexual harassment. The Attorney General will have the final say on the related decisions.
On January 8, 2025, the situation in the Democratic Party regarding the election of a new vice president will be clarified. Giannis Karousos is the only candidate who has publicly shown interest. If no other candidacy arises, he is expected to be declared vice president. The elections will be conducted by the members of the Supreme Council, not by all party members.
In 2024, the Drugs Enforcement Agency confiscated 818 kg of drugs, marking an increase compared to 2023. This increase is attributed to intensified checks and cooperation with foreign agencies. New and unknown types of drugs have appeared on the market, some of which pose dangers to small children. Authorities continue to fight against drugs, monitoring the new methods used by traffickers.
A 25-year-old, who was released early for a serious drug case, is now facing charges of attempted murder in Limassol. He allegedly shot a 39-year-old and was found with drugs at his residence after being pursued. Previously, he had pleaded guilty to cocaine possession and received a seven-year sentence, which was reduced due to recognition of his previous good behavior. Questions are raised about the conditions of his release and potential supervision.
Today, significant changes are expected in the Rent Against Payment policy. Property owners will be exempt from the requirement of holding a final approval certificate, facilitating the implementation of the government's social policy. KEDIPES will take on this responsibility and ensure the safety of homes through technical inspections. These adjustments aim to support owners facing financial difficulties.