The General Accounting Office published the financial grants for parliamentary parties for 2024, including total amounts and additional support for parliamentary associates. DISY and AKEL are the two major parties receiving the largest grants. Youth organization grants were also announced. The grants are intended to fund actions that promote specific goals or support the operational expenses of the parties.
Donald Trump's decision to impose a 25% tariff on car imports has triggered an immediate response from the European Commission, with Ursula von der Leyen expressing concern over the impact on the European automotive industry. Over 20% of car exports from the EU go to the U.S., which significantly affects countries like Germany and Italy. The Commission is evaluating possible retaliatory measures in response to the U.S. tariffs. Meanwhile, the Trade Commissioner is visiting Beijing to enhance negotiations with China.
In Paphos, 70 years after the death of the hero Evagoras Pallikaridis, his classmates gathered once again in their classroom. The event, organized by the A' Lyceum of Archbishop Makarios, celebrated Evagoras' life and legacy. Attendees, including their teacher, shared emotions and memories from those historic moments. Evagoras continues to be a source of inspiration for his classmates and future generations of Greek Cypriots.
Remu is close to completing a significant deal near the GSP, involving eleven plots of land. So far, nine plots have been sold, with two remaining on the market. The total selling price amounts to €16.9 million. The area is characterized by industrial and commercial developments with easy access to the center of Nicosia.
A woman at the center of a magic-related case has appealed to the Supreme Court to annul a search warrant issued for her home, where materials related to magic were found. The investigation began after a report emerged that she was offering fortune-telling services via TikTok. Police uncovered items such as bones and statues that appear to be linked to her activities. The Supreme Court rejected her plea, affirming police authority to conduct the search.
The issues with the GeSY software continue to affect patients and healthcare professionals. In a parliamentary health committee meeting, a representative of the managing company acknowledged the difficulties and stated that efforts are being made to resolve them. A hopeful timeline for resolution is set for the next three months. The Director General of the HIO emphasized the need to address the existing gaps to restore the system's smooth operation.
Odysseas Michailidis, the former Auditor General, enjoys high public approval, with 7 out of 10 supporting him. Recent polls indicate that his currently nonexistent party would enter the parliament in fourth place, while President Christodoulides sees a low approval rating of only 24%. This signals a crisis for the current political system and parliamentary parties.
Starting from the academic year 2024/2025, applications for state student support will only be submitted online. Interested parties can submit their applications until June 1, 2025. They must be registered users of the CY Login Electronic Service to proceed with the application process. Additionally, it is important that applications are submitted with all required documents to facilitate their review.
The Labor Court recognized discrimination against a permanent employee in the public sector. The ruling confirmed that this employee was treated unequally compared to permanent public servants, particularly regarding the calculation of his pension benefits. However, the applicant's other claims were dismissed. This decision is significant for understanding the rights of public sector workers.
The family of Thanasis Nikolaou requested the return of their child's remains from the police. The forensic expert is asking for the restoration of the bones, and the family's request is being examined by the court. The legal service does not oppose the return of the bones as long as legal procedures are followed. However, the plaques must remain under police custody due to potential criminal cases.
Evelina Papoulia testified in the trial of Petros Filippidis, who faces charges of attempted rape. She stated that despite his talent as an actor, she considers him a bad person due to his inappropriate behavior. She shared personal experiences, including provocative and uncomfortable actions that he directed at her. The witness emphasized that if Filippidis had apologized, things might have turned out differently.
Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on all imported cars has sparked strong reactions in international markets. Shares of car manufacturers in Europe and Asia are experiencing significant declines. Trump also threatens more tariffs if the EU or Canada collaborate against the US. Concerns about US trade relations are growing.
The report from the Auditor General warns of the risk of seizing state plots given to poor families, as borrowers may not be able to service their loans. Thirteen cases were reviewed and unsuitable plots were found, while some beneficiaries possessed significant assets. The Republic of Cyprus risks a demand for large amounts due to non-performing loans. The investigation covers housing projects from 2020 to 2022.
The government has announced a simplified process for licensing small desalination units. The aim is to produce potable and non-potable water for hotels and agricultural uses. There is a grant program to support these installations, with funding up to €550,000 based on the capacity of the unit. The procedures include water quality monitoring and recommendations for water extraction.
The rising cost of housing affects households and young people, as expenses include utilities like electricity and fuel. Young individuals, whether students or workers, face challenges due to high rents and difficulties in saving or obtaining loans. The housing sector represents a significant portion of the GDP and requires more government support to become affordable. Targeted actions are necessary for a long-term solution to the problem.
Donald Trump threatened to impose additional tariffs on the EU and Canada if they collaborate against the USA. The newly announced tariffs for imported cars will reach 27.5%, and could rise to 52.5% if further tariffs are applied. The Canadian Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission expressed their concerns over the developments. This situation seems to escalate the ongoing trade war.
Two separate fires broke out in Nicosia and Sotira, resulting in two women being taken to the hospital. The first fire was caused by overheating cooking oil, resulting in burns to the resident of the apartment. The second fire occurred in an auxiliary kitchen but caused minimal damage. In both cases, the women required medical attention.
A 23-year-old motorcyclist is in serious condition following an accident in Aradippou. He collided with a car driven by another 23-year-old. He was taken to the hospital due to the severity of his injuries, which include a head injury and a fractured collarbone. It is uncertain whether he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Today, the weather is warm with temperatures reaching 32 degrees. The atmosphere is stifling due to the presence of dust. Rain and thunderstorms are expected over the weekend, with a slight drop in temperature on Friday. The disturbances will be periodic, mainly in the western and northern areas.
The Japanese government warns of serious consequences from President Trump's imposition of a 25% tariff on imported cars, highlighting the impact on the US-Japan trade relationship and the global economy. Japanese automakers see their stock values drop in the markets. Prime Minister Kishida plans to implement countermeasures. The tariffs are seen as a tool for revitalizing the American industry.
The former Auditor General, Odysseas Michailidis, is planning a new political initiative ahead of the elections, while other political negotiations are reportedly underway behind the scenes. This new movement will focus on combating corruption and modernizing state functions, aiming to present a comprehensive political plan. Initial discussions among a group of MPs indicate interest and potential for the creation of this movement. However, there are also reservations regarding the positions and approaches put forth by participants.
Cyprus is facing serious risks from bacterial meningitis and measles, particularly for children. The mortality rate from bacterial meningitis can reach up to 50% without treatment. Health authorities are encouraging vaccinations to prevent these diseases. In the midst of concerns, the situation is being closely monitored by the relevant authorities.
The discussion in the legal committee escalated into chaos following the protest by hunters who blocked the Nicosia-Limassol highway. Lawmakers exchanged strong opinions regarding the police's response during the incidents. The committee requested written answers about the actions of the Minister of Justice and the circumstances that led to the road closure. This situation caused unrest and concern within the community.
Cyprus is facing a serious water scarcity crisis, particularly in the districts of Limassol and Paphos. The government has decided to take emergency measures, including the installation of additional desalination units. The socioeconomic impacts of this situation are expected to affect public health and food security. Urgent action is deemed necessary to address the water shortage.
Consumers in Cyprus face three main issues, similar to those across Europe. Payment fraud remains the most significant concern, as scammers adopt advanced techniques. Additionally, debt and challenges in opening and maintaining payment accounts are significant problems. A lack of transparency regarding account information is a major concern for consumers.
The Education Committee of the Parliament presented alarming statistics regarding student delinquency. Experts suggest that prevention and collaboration between psychologists and social workers could improve situations in education and society. Proper investment in these services can save millions of euros for the state. Reducing school dropout rates and mental health issues can be achieved through such interventions.
Ersin Tatar is trying to impose his own agenda in Geneva, claiming that the discussions were about cooperation rather than the Cyprus issue. Although the establishment of a 'Cypriot cooperation council' was proposed, it did not gain wider support. President Christodoulides pointed out that Tatar's proposals are outside the framework of the United Nations. Upcoming meetings will reveal whether the Turkish Cypriot side will engage in dialogue within the agreed framework.