5 Minute News

Bill Gates predicts that artificial intelligence will replace doctors and teachers by 2035, providing high-quality medical advice and lessons for free. This shift aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in countries like India and Africa. However, he acknowledges that roles requiring emotional intelligence and creativity cannot be easily replaced in the near future. Gates warns of the risks associated with the fast evolution of AI and emphasizes the need to rethink the meaning of work and economic security.

An individual is missing in the sea area of the Chrysochou Bay after an incident involving a rented speedboat. The National Plan E-D NEARCHOS has been activated, and authorities are conducting searches with boats and helicopters. So far, the missing person has not been located. The search efforts will continue throughout the night.

In Nicosia, 28 foreigners were found living in poor conditions in an apartment building following a municipal inspection. The municipality obtained a prohibition order for the property until the owner makes the necessary repairs. Many of the foreigners, including asylum seekers, remain there due to a lack of better housing options. Inspections will continue to ensure the safety of the residents.

Cardinals are considering potential candidates to succeed Pope Francis, aiming to ease tensions between progressives and conservatives. Although most of the voters have been appointed by Francis, some opposition is expected from conservatives. Candidates include individuals with varying political stances, seeking a balance between progressive and traditional values. They are also looking for a leader with the skills to manage the financial issues of the Vatican.

There is a dispute regarding the responsibilities for the regulations on the Lampradjies. The Justice Minister stated that it is not the right time to assign blame, while the Parliament and the Union of Municipalities argued they are not responsible for criminal behaviors. Most stakeholders pointed to the lack of proper preparation and time to implement the new regulations. The legal committee requested consultation on the bill, but disagreements complicated the situation.

Today, a fatal traffic accident occurred on the Kyrenia-Cythera highway, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuries to nine. The accident took place near the village of Klepini when two vehicles collided. One of the vehicles was a small bus transporting people with mobility issues. The injured were taken to the hospital in Kyrenia for treatment.

Nikos Loizidis, the president of the 'Equality' Trade Union, expresses outrage over the incidents that occurred during Easter, particularly the launching of firecrackers at police officers. He questions how minors can be managed in such violent situations and emphasizes the need for political accountability. He insists that the issue is not solely about fire usage and urges everyone to take responsibility for the failures that led to these events.

A 46-year-old British tourist is facing serious charges of causing death by negligence and careless driving after a fatal accident in Oroklini. He collided with the motorcycle of 57-year-old Petros Christodoulou, who tragically lost his life. The accused appeared in court and will remain in custody until he responds to the charges. The crash occurred on the night of Holy Tuesday on a main road.

A 27-year-old Greek Cypriot inmate was attacked by four individuals in the central prison. Investigators are looking into the possibility of an ambush, with evidence linking one of the attackers to the incident. The victim had posted troubling video material that angered other inmates. The young man did not sustain serious injuries and was returned to prison after treatment.

The two cameras on Grivas Digenis Avenue in Egkomi are being removed, as they have not been operational since 2022. The removal process has begun due to the expiration of the contract with the company. There is a plan to reduce the speed limit in the area to 50 km/h from 65 km/h. Policing will continue through radar and mobile cameras.

The Parliamentary Legal Committee issued a statement regarding the ban on lighting firecrackers, emphasizing that the legal framework is clear. Local authorities are unable to implement the legislation due to a lack of personnel and proper equipment. The committee reminds that the responsibility for enforcement lies with the Police and Fire Services. The revised draft bill was not accepted by all parties involved.

The funeral of Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. as announced by the Vatican. Catholic faithful are mourning his death around the world. Preparations for the funeral and the succession ritual are underway at the Vatican. Cardinals will meet today to decide on the details of the ceremony.

Last night, clashes occurred between foreigners in Finikoudes. The police were informed and two young men, aged 20 and 21, were arrested for their involvement in the incidents. The arrested individuals will appear in Larnaca court. The investigation for other involved parties is ongoing.

Justice Minister Marios Harchiotis announced measures to address juvenile delinquency following recent incidents. Juvenile misconduct will be linked to school behavior, and cases will be adjudicated promptly. He emphasized that responsibility is not solely governmental, but also falls on parents. The reported incidents primarily involved youths aged 11 to 14 years.

In Strovolos, there was an arson incident in a classroom of a primary school. The fire, which was set deliberately, destroyed furniture and materials in the art room. The firefighting and police forces quickly responded to the incident. Investigations are ongoing.

Youth delinquency in Agia Fylas has reached a dangerous level, with residents increasingly worried about their safety and lamenting ongoing damages. Youngsters, mainly minors, create disturbances and destruction, while the local police struggle to respond effectively due to their age. Residents feel they cannot leave their homes and express fear of potential damage to their properties. With Easter approaching, tensions are escalating their concerns.

After the Easter feast, it is important to return to healthy eating habits. Clinical dietitian Panos Plattritis advises against drastic diets and recommends eating small and frequent meals. He also emphasizes proper hydration and consuming healthy foods like vegetables and fruits. Ultimately, it is essential to maintain a normal relationship with food.

The revised proposal from the Ministry of Education for a new system of teacher evaluation has been submitted and is expected to be reviewed by educational organizations. The process for discussion and approval in Parliament will progress with public consultation and legal review. Organizations will meet to express their opinions after the Easter break. Changes include the establishment of a three-member appeals board and mandatory participation in training programs after promotion.

The Department of Public Works is upgrading road guardrails to enhance the road safety of motorcyclists. The new protection aims to reduce serious injuries and fatalities in accidents. Protective systems have been installed along kilometers of highways and will be included in new road projects. These measures contribute to prevention and the protection of human life.

The Larnaca Municipality and TEPAK are working on establishing a School of Marine Sciences, aimed to welcome its first students in September 2027. There is significant pressure to complete the necessary buildings and permits within the next two and a half years. A plan B is being considered in case of delays, offering alternative classroom locations. Discussions about student housing and funding are ongoing.

Turkey is attempting to restore its diplomatic image through the Turkic States organization by holding a summit in the occupied territories. This meeting follows the decision of four countries to open embassies in the Republic of Cyprus, raising concerns in Ankara. The purpose of the summit is to seek solutions to this emerging issue according to a strategy of silent diplomacy. However, history shows that Turkey rarely maintains silence on matters that challenge its sense of Turkic identity.

The tragedy involving the death of 22-year-old Daniel Fratilescu has political implications for the Parliament. The Parliament's rejection of a bill regarding lampratzies has led to tensions between the government and lawmakers. The Justice Ministry believes the Parliament should have voted earlier. Public reaction is strong, with calls for accountability directed towards the Parliament.