Tensions within the Democratic Party have resurfaced due to comments made by Michalis Ioannidis regarding the leadership of Averof Neofytou. Petros Dimitriou responded by stating that Ioannidis's remarks spread discord within the party. In his statement, Dimitriou condemned the attempts to diminish the former president and to revise the party's history. The discussion has been heated and highlights internal disagreements. The atmosphere among D.P. members remains tense, indicating deeper concerns about the party's future.
last month
Mother Remanded in Custody for Daughter's Death
A 32-year-old mother from Algeria has been remanded in custody for the alleged murder of her 3-year-old daughter, who was found dead at Edem beach. She denies the charges, claiming it was a tragic accident, stating that the child fell in the bathroom. She said that when she discovered the child was dead, she took her to the beach. Despite her inability to speak Greek, she managed to give her testimony with the help of an interpreter. Meanwhile, her other children are being temporarily housed in a hospital, and social services are seeking solutions for their future.
American Experts Support Investigation of Limassol Fire
Ten American fire experts are in Cyprus to assist in the investigation of the devastating fire in Limassol. The U.S. Embassy expressed its pleasure for this support. This collaboration highlights the strong ties between the U.S. and Cyprus. The investigators will start their work tomorrow. Their assistance is crucial during these challenging times.
Suspension of Five Charges Against Giannakis
Former Commissioner for Volunteerism, Giannakis Giannakis, has had five out of eight charges suspended during his trial. The charges relate to his hiring process by the Cyprus Youth Organization. His attorney admitted guilt to three charges concerning forged documents, but he did not admit to others. The judge emphasized that she would not tolerate delays and scheduled a follow-up hearing for August 29. The sentence for the admitted charges could reach 10 years in prison.
The body of a man who had been missing for 28 years was found in a glacier in Pakistan, nearly intact. The man, named Naseeruddin, disappeared in 1997 during a snowstorm. The discovery was made by a shepherd when ice began to melt. Scientists explain that the preservation of the body is due to the freezing environment of the glacier. This case highlights the effects of climate change and how melting ice reveals secrets from the past.
Cancer patient seeks shelter after fire
Ms. Chryssalla Paraskeva, a stage-four cancer patient, lost her home due to a fire and is searching for new accommodation in the community of Pano Kyvides. She stated that she has to leave the temporary apartment she was provided by the end of August. The village chief confirmed that this is a real situation, but available housing options are limited. She expresses concern about the constant relocations due to her illness. Her health condition is worsening, and she feels she lacks the strength to find another home.
The fire that broke out in the Malaya area of mountainous Limassol spread quickly due to wind. The Cyprus Institute used satellite images to analyze the fire's spread. Their new algorithm detects temperature and smoke anomalies in a short period. The analysis indicated that the fire may have originated from one area and rapidly spread to another. This research contributes to fire monitoring and detection in Cyprus.
Claims for Compensation from Homeowners Affected by the Fire
The current claims made by homeowners to insurance companies due to the fire in Limassol total 20 million euros. Further claims are expected in the coming weeks. The General Director of the Association of Insurance Companies states that compensation will be paid according to the insurance contracts. Damages range from a few hundred to over a million euros. It is also emphasized that homeowners must comply with the terms of their insurance to receive compensation.
Compensation Initiatives for Fire Victims in Limassol
The President of Cyprus expresses satisfaction with the progress of compensation measures for fire victims. Compensation has already been paid to 236 out of 395 cases, with a goal to complete the process soon. Additionally, electricity bills up to €500 are being covered for affected households and businesses. Support actions also include compensation for farmers, with over 775 beneficiaries so far. The President urges relevant ministries to accelerate the recovery processes.
Invitation of American Experts for Analysis of Limassol Fire
President Christodoulides has invited American experts to compile a detailed report on the deadly fire in Limassol. The aim is to create a roadmap for better handling of natural disasters in the future. Their investigation has already begun with the analysis of satellite images, focusing on the fire's origin. The government seeks a more objective inquiry involving specialized experts. The mission will cooperate with local authorities to investigate the causes of the fire.
Joker Sets Record with €22 Million in Next Draw
The OPAP Joker has broken records with the new jackpot reaching €22 million. The next draw will feature this astronomical amount. In the last draw, three tickets won €100,000 each. The first two tickets were worth €42 and €6, while the third was €4. The reception of the winning tickets was high.
The parliamentary plenary voted on changes to the laws regarding multiple pensions. The proposed amendments by President Christodoulides aim to improve the constitutionality of the laws. However, the new laws seem to fail to address the issue and exclude judges and other officials from the regulations. Legislators are concerned that the modifications may be deemed unconstitutional. Some argue that the new regulations create even more problems rather than resolving them.
Political Debate in Parliament Over the Wildfires
The recent parliamentary session regarding the deadly wildfires revealed intense political disputes. The Government is trying to justify its actions, while the Opposition focuses on the responsibilities for political decisions and omissions. The Minister of Agriculture faced significant criticism for the absence of the Ministry's director during the fires. The debates among politicians highlighted the weaknesses of the system in matters of fire safety. Central to the discussion were the responsibilities of the Presidential office and the need for improvements in rescue procedures.
The unions of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) are critically addressing both the management of the Authority and the Ministry of Energy regarding delays in ensuring electricity supply, which is expected to worsen starting in 2024. They highlight the inability to import natural gas and the slow upgrades of electricity production stations. Additionally, they stress that all consumers should share the costs of new generators at the Dhekelia station to prevent the EAC from bearing the financial burden alone. The European Commission's refusal to support funding for EAC's needs is causing significant backlash. Urgent and effective solutions are deemed necessary.
Policing Expenses for Football Matches 2019-2023
From 2019 to 2023, the government spent approximately €7.5 million on the policing of football matches, with 18 matches classified as high-risk in 2023. The Minister of Justice stated that the total cost is borne by the state, not the clubs. Furthermore, from 2017 to 2024, there were 230 arrests of fans for violence at stadiums. The policing costs vary each year, with 2023 having the highest expenditure. The government claims that stadium violence is tackled through strict law enforcement.
New Palliative Care Center Planned in Limassol
The Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society is planning to build a new palliative care center in Limassol to support cancer patients and their families. The center aims to meet the needs of patients and health professionals. Its operation will facilitate access to services and improve the quality of care. With the passing of new regulatory laws, in-hospital palliative care units are also expected to be funded by the General Health System. The goal is to create a suitable environment for the support of patients post-treatment.
Cyprus will send back to Syria unaccompanied minors involved in criminal activities, as they pose a danger to public safety. Five minors have already returned voluntarily from Cyprus. Authorities have compiled a list of about 30 minors causing problems, while over 100 others remain without issues. The government's coordinated efforts aim to separate troublesome minors to allow others to live under normal conditions. The returns are not considered expulsions but voluntary, to avoid criminal prosecution.
Weaknesses in Civil Defense During the Limassol Fire
The investigative committee for the fire in Limassol highlighted serious weaknesses in the Civil Defense during evacuations. Mayors from affected areas reported that Civil Defense was absent, forcing them to make decisions alone. One mayor claimed that Civil Defense provided him with instructions that could lead to the deaths of residents. The parliamentary discussion remained tense and did not focus on the serious issues raised. The testimonies emphasized the need for substantial changes in crisis management.