5 Minute News

The vote of no confidence against Prime Minister Mitsotakis's government was rejected by the Hellenic Parliament. A total of 293 MPs participated in the voting, with 136 in favor and 157 against. The three-day parliamentary process concluded with an announcement from the presidency. This outcome reflects the continued support for the government from the parliamentary majority.

Information reveals that Elon Musk's meeting with government officials at the White House sparked tension as he attacked Secretary of State Marco Rubio over public employee layoffs. Rubio countered that many have already left voluntarily, while other officials voiced concerns about the consequences of mass layoffs. Trump, attempting to diffuse the situation, praised both parties but emphasized the need for cooperation. This situation indicates increasing pressure and dynamics between Musk and government officials.

The police have initiated an internal investigation regarding allegations of child abuse at a nursery in Limassol. The child's parents reported serious injuries to their 13-month-old baby that seem inconsistent with a fall from a low height. The mother stated that the baby had blood on its face when she arrived at the school. This case raises concerns about the safety of children in nurseries.

Former US President Donald Trump stated he is considering imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia following recent attacks in Ukraine. He urged both sides to come to the negotiating table before it is too late. His remarks come after multiple nights of Russian drone strikes in Odesa, causing significant damage to infrastructure. Trump's stance raises questions about the future US policy towards Russia.

The Health Services Organization announced the upgrade of the Accident and Emergency Department at the General Hospital of Nicosia, starting on March 10, 2025. The project includes significant improvements to the infrastructure and equipment to better serve the population. Completion is expected by the end of 2025, aiming for modern and faster health services. The HSO promises to minimize inconvenience for patients during the construction period.

The government and AKEL have disagreements regarding the European Council's decisions on defense. AKEL is concerned about the militarization of Europe and its implications for peace and living standards. They argue that financial resources are being directed towards military industries, while social spending is being cut. In contrast, the government defends its decisions, emphasizing the importance of national security.

Many tenants in the Municipality of Limassol owe a total of 2 million euros in unpaid rents. Mayor Giannis Armeftis has decided to take legal action against initially 20 cases, as tenants are unresponsive to warnings. The municipality is striving to collect owed amounts and stabilize its finances. Legislative measures for enforcement will be discussed in the upcoming Municipal Council meeting.

The Dutch royal couple recently visited Cyprus and left behind some flowers. A student from Pallouriotissa High School, named Edjie Salieva, took the initiative to distribute them among her classmates and teachers. Her act brought color and joy to the school, especially with International Women's Day approaching. These flowers avoided being discarded and found a new purpose in Edjie's hands.

The EU summit did not provide significant commitments for supporting Ukraine, despite Zelensky's presence. European leaders primarily focused on strengthening the European defense sector, spending only 15 minutes discussing Ukraine's needs. The situation is urgent as the US is decreasing its military support. Additionally, Hungary blocked the endorsement of a supportive statement for Ukraine.

Justice Minister Marios Charalambous delivered a message to those attacking police officers, urging them to remove their 'carnival masks' and recognize their true value. His speech at the Police Headquarters coincided with the memorial day for fallen officers. He emphasized the importance of heroes serving society, paying tribute to their struggles and sacrifices. The government shows support to the families of the fallen, acknowledging their pain and loss.

Women who experienced the horrors of the 1974 Turkish invasion are now sharing their voices in the European Parliament, thanks to Lukás Fourlas's initiative. The Women's Rights Committee will visit Cyprus to document their testimonies. The goal is to give a voice to those who suffered rapes and torture and to recognize the wounds inflicted by the Turkish army's crimes. This event occurs at a significant time, linking these stories to ongoing discussions about the war in Ukraine.

Energy Minister George Papageorgiou announced that the Cypriot government will proceed with the purchase of new gas turbines for the Dhekelia station, despite the EU's reluctance to approve covering the costs from consumers. The new generators will enhance electricity production and ensure system adequacy. The minister emphasized that the installation cost is comparatively lower than the consequences of a potential blackout. The processes for procurement and installation are advancing with clear directives from the President.

The upcoming Joker draw will distribute at least €5,000,000 to the winners of the first category. In the last draw, two lucky players matched numbers in the second category and will each win €100,000. The draw is scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2025.

The proposal by DIKO to allow non-party members to vote in internal elections has sparked reactions. There are concerns about the party's direction ahead of the parliamentary elections, along with criticism directed at the leadership of Nikola Papadopoulos. Some are calling for self-criticism following the party's poor electoral performance, emphasizing the need for a clear political direction. Issues related to the Cyprus problem remain without clear positions as well.

Banks are preparing to relax the terms for granting new loans, expecting an increase in demand for credit. According to a survey by the Central Bank of Cyprus, the scrutiny of potential borrowers has become more lenient compared to previous quarters. This shift marks the first relaxation of criteria for businesses since 2009 and for households since 2017. Additionally, decreases in interest rates and bank margins for new loans have been observed.

In the European Union, most countries have restricted or abolished the payment of multiple pensions to active public officials. Cyprus remains uncertain on the issue, as some court decisions allow certain officials to receive both salary and pension. Some countries, like Sweden and Bulgaria, permit multiple pensions, while others impose restrictions. The research was conducted by the Cypriot Parliament to compare practices of other EU member states.

The Health Insurance Organization did not enter into a contract with Christina Giannaki but is awaiting support from the government to manage the patient referral program abroad. There is a pending bill in Parliament related to lifting the freeze on positions in the public sector. The chairman of the OAY, Stavros Michail, stated that Giannaki did not ask to stay and that the collaboration was excellent. Responsibilities of the ministries of Health and Finance for the delay in preparations were also recognized.

The president of the OAY stated that delays in the provision of treatments are due to the organization's understaffing. Despite these delays, several applications for ongoing and new therapies have been processed. There are also issues regarding the inclusion of private occupational therapists in GESY. Lawmakers expressed doubts about the explanations given.

A criminal investigation is underway against a police officer who drew a weapon on a citizen during a traffic check in Paphos. The incident arose from the citizen's resistance to receiving a ticket for not wearing a helmet. The Independent Authority is examining whether the officer was justified in using his weapon under the specific circumstances. The investigation is still ongoing.

The case of a same-sex couple from Britain who had twins in Cyprus through surrogate motherhood has raised concerns regarding potential legal violations. Cypriot law mandates an altruistic model that prohibits payments to surrogate mothers. However, reports suggest that financial compensation may have been involved. The clinic associated with this case has taken its website offline following the backlash.