MVP

Tag: Cyprus

  • Clear Skies and Warm Temperatures for Cyprus This Thursday

    Clear Skies and Warm Temperatures for Cyprus This Thursday

    clear skies — Clear skies are in store for Cyprus on Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach 28°C inland. Although the day will start with mainly fine weather, some areas may experience increased cloudiness, especially after midday.

    • The sea will remain smooth to slight, making it ideal for any maritime activities or a leisurely day at the beach.

    Clear skies: Weather Conditions Across Cyprus

    In the morning, winds will be variable and light, classified as force 3 on the Beaufort scale. As the day progresses, these winds are expected to shift to a mainly southwesterly to northwesterly direction, increasing to light to moderate, force 3 to 4 Beaufort.

    Sea Conditions

    The sea will remain smooth to slight, making it ideal for any maritime activities or a leisurely day at the beach.

    Temperature Forecast

    Temperatures will vary across the island, with inland areas reaching around 28°C. Coastal regions will be slightly cooler, with the southern and eastern coasts around 27°C, the western and northern coasts at approximately 26°C, and higher mountainous areas expected to be around 20°C.

    Weekend Outlook

    The pleasant weather is set to continue into the weekend, with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday anticipated to be mainly clear. However, similar to Thursday, there may be instances of increased cloud cover after midday. Temperatures are not expected to deviate significantly from the seasonal norms during this period.

  • Pharmacies Open Overnight Across Cyprus on October 14

    Pharmacies Open Overnight Across Cyprus on October 14

    Pharmacies across Cyprus will remain open overnight on Tuesday, October 14, providing essential services to those in need. Here’s a comprehensive list of the pharmacies operating during the night in various cities.

    Nicosia Pharmacies

    • Solomou Ourania, Strovolos Avenue & Pythonos 4. Located next to the “Gyalini” Apartment Building, Strovolos. Tel: 22313123, 22283622.
    • Triantafyllou Frangiskos Marios, Prodromou 24. Situated opposite the “Evangelistria” Medical Center and next to “Pandora” bakery-patisserie, Engomi. Tel: 22332315.
    • Konstantinou Dimitris, Stasandrou 26A. This is a SEK Shareholder Pharmacy in Nicosia. Tel: 22764691, 22484828.
    • Kitsa Marina, Kyriakou Matsis Avenue 21C & Samou. Located at the traffic lights in Agioi Omologites, Nicosia. Tel: 22441780, 22420506.
    • Chatzigianni Kleio, Larnakos Avenue 129. This pharmacy is next to “Andreas Charalambous Ltd” store, Nicosia. Tel: 22333311, 22436322.
    • Rangavas Ioannis, Archbishop Makarios III Avenue 115. Positioned 100m from the 2nd Primary School of Latsia, opposite “Casa Di Fiori” florist. Tel: 22486488, 22492717.

    Limassol Pharmacies

    • Kamenidou Gianna, Franklin Roosevelt Avenue 255E. Opposite “Sunfresh” bakery, Zakaki, Limassol. Tel: 25715315, 25715716.
    • Agamemnonos Charoula, King Constantine 131. Near Tsirion Stadium, Limassol. Tel: 25870748, 25560442.
    • Grigoriou Grigoris, Kosti Palamas 37B. Located north of Lanition, Agios Nektarios, Mesa Geitonia. Tel: 25754111, 25566818.
    • Syngelidou Anna, Karaiskakis 36Z. Opposite the former Central Cooperative Bank, Limassol. Tel: 25746522, 25341824.
    • Kardiakidou Marianna, 28th October Avenue 353. On the coastal road next to “ONE Seafront Tower”, Limassol. Tel: 25337050.

    Larnaca Pharmacies

    • Rizek Andreas, Archbishop Makarios Avenue 65, Kiti. Tel: 24427065, 24425209.
    • Stavrou Melios, Ermou 41 & King Evagoras 8. Located opposite “Beauty Line” in Larnaca. Tel: 24628041, 24531731.
    • Koulouma Dimitriou Anna, United Nations 16A. On the Larnaca-Limassol road. Tel: 24642333, 24661155.

    Paphos Pharmacies

    • Polykarpou Ikaros, Eleftherios Venizelos 29. Below the “Agios Georgios” clinic, Paphos. Tel: 26935133, 26653809.
    • Kokkinou Dorothea, Griva Digeni 51, Polis Chrysochous. Tel: 26322220, 97680660.

    Famagusta Pharmacies

    • Pogiatzi Irini, Protaras Avenue 191, store 2. Near the “Metro” supermarket, Paralimni. Tel: 23250200.
    • Stavri Antigoni, Heroes Square 6B. Opposite the Bank of Cyprus, Sotira. Tel: 23825511.

    These pharmacies will be available to provide necessary services during the night, ensuring that residents across Cyprus have access to medications and health consultations at all hours.

  • Connectivity Issues Hit Cyprus Government Internet Hub After Cable Cut

    Connectivity Issues Hit Cyprus Government Internet Hub After Cable Cut

    Cyprus’s government internet hub has faced significant connectivity issues today due to a cable cut by a service provider, disrupting access for both government employees and the public.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    • Cyprus's government internet hub has faced significant connectivity issues today due to a cable cut by a service provider, disrupting access for both government employees and the public.
    • Technical teams are expected to fully restore connectivity within the coming hours, ensuring that essential services can resume for both government workers and the public at large.

    Reports indicate that government employees, including those working at the Presidential Palace, have been unable to connect to the internet since this morning. Websites critical for public services, such as Ariadne and Taxisnet, are currently inaccessible, with users encountering error messages.

    Initially, there was speculation regarding a potential cyber attack as the cause of the outage. However, this was quickly clarified by officials who confirmed that the disruption was linked to a physical issue with the internet service provider’s infrastructure.

    Deputy Minister for Research and Innovation, Nikodimos Damianou, addressed the situation in a statement to Philenews, attributing the connectivity problems directly to a cable cut. He assured the public that technical teams were working diligently to resolve the issue.

    Further details were provided by Yiorgos Komodromos, the Deputy Director General of the Deputy Ministry, who specified that the fault originated from a line belonging to one of the telecommunications providers. Crews have been dispatched to the site, and he expressed confidence that the problem would be rectified promptly.

    The Deputy Ministry for Research, Innovation and Digital Policy also released a statement, emphasising that there is no indication of a cyber security threat or any malicious activity contributing to the disruption. The ministry has communicated that the temporary malfunction is linked solely to the technical failure caused by the cable cut.

    While some ministry official websites remain accessible to citizens, they are not reachable from government service computers due to the ongoing issues. The Deputy Ministry expressed gratitude for the public’s understanding and patience as they work towards restoring normal operations.

    Technical teams are expected to fully restore connectivity within the coming hours, ensuring that essential services can resume for both government workers and the public at large.

  • Surge in Medical Negligence Complaints Recorded by Patients’ Rights Observatory

    Surge in Medical Negligence Complaints Recorded by Patients’ Rights Observatory

    The Patients’ Rights Observatory has reported a significant increase in complaints regarding medical negligence, with 57 cases logged in September alone. This surge marks one of the highest monthly totals since the observatory’s establishment, just shy of the record 61 complaints received in January 2025.

    Many of the recent complaints highlight distressing incidents involving patient deaths, inadequate care, and alarming lapses in communication within healthcare settings. Families have begun approaching authorities, seeking formal investigations into these troubling cases.

    Medical negligence: Concerning Patterns Emerge

    Reports from citizens indicate a worrying trend of long waits in accident and emergency (A&E) departments, with patients often left without necessary updates about their health. Instances of neglect have been noted both in A&E units and hospital wards, leading to complications for patients. Surgical interventions have also been called into question, with some patients facing worsened conditions or unnecessary procedures.

    Distressing Accounts from Families

    In one particularly harrowing case, an elderly patient died while hospitalised, with the family alleging that a series of care failures contributed to the tragedy. They reported extended delays in receiving medical attention upon arrival at A&E and inadequate treatment for infections during the hospital stay. The letter detailing these grievances was shared by the Federation of Patient Associations of Cyprus (CyFPA/OSAK), which has been vocal about the need for accountability in such matters.

    Another complaint involved a patient who, after being told his post-operative recovery was progressing normally, later died. An autopsy was conducted, but the family is now grappling with delays in receiving crucial results, further compounding their distress.

    Underestimation of Symptoms

    Several citizens have come forward with stories of misdiagnosis and inadequate assessments, particularly in A&E departments. One patient exhibited serious symptoms that were misinterpreted as psychological issues, leading to a dangerous delay in receiving appropriate medical care. The next day, doctors discovered a severe complication that had already caused irreversible damage, necessitating urgent surgery.

    Alarming Surgical Mishaps

    Another complaint raised concerns regarding a surgical procedure that deviated significantly from what was described to the patient. Initially assured that the operation would be minimally invasive, the patient experienced a lengthy procedure with a large incision, which ultimately did not resolve the underlying issue. Contradictory information from the surgeon about the need for a follow-up surgery has left the patient and family confused and frustrated, especially after a second opinion revealed no improvement.

    Failures in Communication and Care

    Reports of poor communication during hospitalisation are also prevalent. One family described how their elderly relative faced numerous challenges, including a lack of updates about transfers to other wards, neglect of personal hygiene, and chaotic discharge procedures. They highlighted serious shortcomings in care that they believe contributed to a negative outcome.

    Seeking Accountability

    The Patients’ Rights Observatory does not directly investigate allegations of medical negligence but records such complaints and directs citizens to the appropriate authorities. However, many individuals express reluctance to lodge formal complaints, fearing that their grievances will not lead to meaningful change.

    The data collected by the observatory reflects a pressing need for improvements within the healthcare system. As complaints continue to rise, the call for greater accountability and better patient care becomes more urgent.

  • Interconnector — Keravnos Labels Greek Energy Minister’s Claims as ‘Fake News’ Regarding Interconnector

    Interconnector — Keravnos Labels Greek Energy Minister’s Claims as ‘Fake News’ Regarding Interconnector

    The debate surrounding the Great Sea Interconnector has intensified, with Finance Minister Makis Keravnos accusing Greek Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou of spreading ‘fake news’. This accusation arose after Papastavrou claimed Keravnos had failed to present studies he cited, which purportedly indicate that the project is not sustainable.

    During a session of the House finance committee, Keravnos clarified that the studies in question were commissioned by Cypriot Energy Minister George Papanastasiou and were properly submitted to the Greek energy ministry. “We all know the studies and their findings,” he remarked, acknowledging that while some concerns are valid, he himself shares numerous reservations about the project’s viability.

    Keravnos expressed his commitment to maintaining harmonious relations between the Greek and Cypriot governments, although he expressed discontent with Papastavrou’s assertions. He noted that his predecessor, Constantinos Petrides, had received these studies from the energy ministry during his tenure.

    In a recent television appearance, Papastavrou dismissed what he termed ‘constantly conflicting messages from the Cypriot side’ regarding the interconnector. He cited Keravnos as questioning the project’s viability both before and after a meeting between Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in New York. Papastavrou stated, “The finance minister says that it should not be done and it is not sustainable, referring to two studies which he does not show to Cypriot Energy Minister George Papanastasiou.”

    Compounding the tension, Papastavrou addressed comments from President Christodoulides, who had taken issue with demands from Greece’s independent transmission system operator, Admie, for Cyprus to pay €25 million for the project. Papastavrou affirmed that Cyprus would not be ‘blackmailed’ over these payments, which are intended to support the project’s financing and ensure Admie’s income during the construction phase.

    The financial commitment from Cyprus involves five annual payments of €25 million, which the Cypriot government has withheld due to a perceived lack of progress on the project and disagreements over funding sources. Papanastasiou stated last month that the first instalment would only be released when the project is fully implemented, asserting that merely constructing cables is insufficient to meet this requirement.

    Initially, Cyprus planned to utilise funds from the European Union’s emissions trading system to cover these payments, alleviating the financial burden on taxpayers. However, Admie has raised concerns that this arrangement could potentially violate EU state aid regulations and has requested the Cyprus energy regulatory authority (Cera) to start charging consumers instead.

    In September, Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis urged the Cypriot government to clarify its stance on the interconnector, following Keravnos’s public statements regarding the independent studies that concluded the project was unsustainable. Hatzidakis pointed out that the necessary seabed surveys to determine cable placement had not yet been completed, describing completion of these surveys as crucial for accurately estimating the project’s total cost.

    Contradicting this narrative, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis asserted that seabed surveys were ongoing and had proceeded according to schedule. This conflicting information has only added to the uncertainty surrounding the interconnector’s future.

  • Gaza ceasefire — President Christodoulides Attends Gaza Ceasefire Signing in Sharm el-Sheikh

    Gaza ceasefire — President Christodoulides Attends Gaza Ceasefire Signing in Sharm el-Sheikh

    President Christodoulides is in Sharm el-Sheikh today for the signing of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, marking a significant moment for Cyprus’s role in regional diplomacy.

    • President Christodoulides is in Sharm el-Sheikh today for the signing of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, marking a significant moment for Cyprus's role in regional diplomacy.
    • By being included in this elite group, Cyprus is perceived as a pillar of stability and an ally in constructive dialogue, strengthening its position on the world stage.
    • “We are not resting on our laurels,” Christodoulides said. “The invitation is a clear recognition of our role and what we can achieve moving forward.”
    • The President is joined by key members of his government, including the Foreign Minister and Deputy Minister for European Affairs, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic engagement.

    Invited by the United States and Egypt, the President’s participation underscores Cyprus’s upgraded geopolitical standing in the Eastern Mediterranean. He noted that Cyprus now joins a select group of nations actively involved in shaping Gaza’s future and reconstruction efforts.

    Diplomatic sources highlighted that this invitation reflects a broader recognition of Cyprus’s contributions to stability and humanitarian efforts in the region, as well as the international trust it has garnered from influential countries.

    “Cyprus is an interlocutor with all parties and not a spectator in regional developments,” sources stated, emphasising the country’s commitment to supporting Gaza’s recovery and fostering regional security.

    In comments made prior to the event, President Christodoulides expressed gratitude to both President Biden and President al-Sisi for the invitation. He described it as a testament to Cyprus’s diplomatic achievements and the expectations placed on the country by the international community.

    The list of attendees at the signing ceremony is notably exclusive, featuring only 23 states alongside three key institutions: the EU, the UN, and the Arab League. Other participants include nations with vested interests in the Palestinian issue, such as Qatar, Jordan, and Turkey, among others.

    By being included in this elite group, Cyprus is perceived as a pillar of stability and an ally in constructive dialogue, strengthening its position on the world stage.

    President Christodoulides remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “We want Cypriot companies to have a role in the reconstruction of Gaza. Our involvement is essential for security matters and the effective implementation of the agreement.”

    This summit follows months of active Cypriot diplomacy, notably through the Amaltheia initiative, which has been pivotal in establishing a humanitarian corridor to Gaza. The initiative has been instrumental in fostering relationships with key partners in the region, including the US, Egypt, and the UAE.

    The President’s presence at this ceremony is expected to amplify Cyprus’s diplomatic influence, particularly as the country prepares to assume the EU Council presidency in 2026. This development counters narratives of isolation, showcasing Cyprus as a credible and engaged international player.

    “We are not resting on our laurels,” Christodoulides said. “The invitation is a clear recognition of our role and what we can achieve moving forward.”

    As leaders convene for the summit, the programme commences with a reception led by President al-Sisi, followed by the signing ceremony and an opening address by President Biden, setting the tone for discussions on Gaza’s future.

    The President is joined by key members of his government, including the Foreign Minister and Deputy Minister for European Affairs, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic engagement.

  • Gaza reconstruction — President Christodoulides to Unveil Gaza Reconstruction Plan at Egypt Summit

    Gaza reconstruction — President Christodoulides to Unveil Gaza Reconstruction Plan at Egypt Summit

    The President of the Republic, Nicos Christodoulides, is set to present a Gaza reconstruction plan during the upcoming summit in Egypt. This initiative aims to involve Cypriot companies in the rebuilding efforts, underscoring Cyprus’s role in regional stability and humanitarian assistance.

    Engagement with Regional Leaders

    Prior to his departure for Egypt, President Christodoulides spoke to the media following a memorial service for the heroes of the Saranti community. He revealed that in the last 48 hours, he had engaged in multiple discussions with key leaders in the region. These included Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the President of the European Council, and the President of the United Arab Emirates.

    Invitation to the Summit

    Mr Christodoulides expressed his gratitude to US President Donald Trump and President al-Sisi for the invitation extended to Cyprus to participate in the summit. He noted that being one of only 22 invited countries reflects the recognition of Nicosia’s active role and credibility in the region.

    Details of the Gaza Reconstruction Plan

    The President highlighted that the action plan he plans to present focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza, specifically through the involvement of Cypriot businesses. He pointed out that this plan is integral to the ongoing peace process and is linked to the security matters outlined in the recent ceasefire agreement.

    Importance of Initial Phases

    Christodoulides emphasised that the full implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement is crucial for advancing the peace process. His comments indicate a commitment to ensuring that the reconstruction efforts are not only effective but also supportive of long-term stability in the region.

    Cyprus’s Role in Humanitarian Efforts

    Emphasising Cyprus’s humanitarian role, the President reiterated the nation’s capability to act as a stabilising force. He referred to the “Amalthea” corridor, which has been pivotal in evacuating citizens from conflict areas. Furthermore, he mentioned that Cyprus will play a significant role in facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid through the CYCLOPS Centre located in Larnaca.

    Upcoming EU Presidency

    As Cyprus prepares to take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in less than 90 days, President Christodoulides noted that this transition will further bolster Cyprus’s diplomatic position within the Eastern Mediterranean. The upcoming presidency is expected to enhance Cyprus’s influence in discussions related to regional security and humanitarian efforts.

    Recent Developments in Defence Cooperation

    In light of recent geopolitical developments, the President addressed the US decision to lift the arms embargo against Cyprus. He described this move as “expected and significant,” with aspirations towards the permanent abolition of the restriction. Additionally, he disclosed plans for National Guard officials from Cyprus to visit the United States to assess defence materials as part of ongoing cooperation programmes.

    Upgrades to Defence Infrastructure

    Mr Christodoulides confirmed that the upgrade of the “Andreas Papandreou” Air Base in Paphos is progressing in collaboration with the US. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the defence and security capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus, reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional stability and security cooperation.

    Looking Ahead

    As President Christodoulides embarks on this significant diplomatic mission, the implications of the Gaza reconstruction plan and Cyprus’s involvement in regional security will be closely watched. His participation in the summit signifies a pivotal moment for the Republic of Cyprus as it seeks to strengthen its international partnerships and contribute to meaningful change in the region.

  • Children in Occupied Cyprus Faint from Hunger Amid Economic Crisis

    Children in Occupied Cyprus Faint from Hunger Amid Economic Crisis

    Children in occupied Cyprus are reportedly fainting from hunger in schools, highlighting a dire situation exacerbated by the ongoing economic crisis and soaring living costs. Cansu N. Nazlı, a member of the “Independence Road” party, brought this alarming issue to light during a recent statement.

    According to Nazlı, the phenomenon has reached a critical point, with many children experiencing severe hunger while attending school. She expressed her deep concern, stating, “There are children (in the occupied territories) who faint in schools from hunger,” and called for urgent measures to address this troubling reality.

    In her appeal, Nazlı emphasised the need for the immediate provision of free meals to all students, asserting that access to healthy nutrition is a fundamental right of every child. She urged the ministry of education to cooperate with the social services agency and local municipalities to implement a comprehensive free meal programme.

    Furthermore, Nazlı highlighted the need to rethink financial allocations within the education system. She proposed the abolition of financial incentives for private schools, suggesting that those resources should be redirected to support public schools. “Ensuring safe and healthy food for children is the duty of the state,” she asserted, stressing the importance of prioritising the needs of students in the public sector.

    The situation has drawn attention from various quarters, with advocates calling for immediate action to prevent further suffering among children in the region. As the economic crisis continues, the plight of these vulnerable students raises critical questions about the responsibilities of authorities in ensuring their well-being.

  • Short films: Explore More Than Films at the 15th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus

    Short films: Explore More Than Films at the 15th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus

    This week, the International Short Film Festival of Cyprus launches its 15th edition, inviting attendees to explore a vibrant array of activities beyond watching films.

    • This week, the International Short Film Festival of Cyprus launches its 15th edition, inviting attendees to explore a vibrant array of activities beyond watching films.
    • Wednesday's Queer Fragments screening will confront themes of intimacy, abuse, friendship, loss, and unfinished legacies, reflecting the fragility and strength of gay men’s lives.

    Short films: Diverse Events Await in Limassol

    The festival is set to take place from Saturday, October 11, to October 17, 2023, in Limassol. In addition to its international and national competition sections, this year’s edition features a rich sidebar agenda filled with workshops, discussions, and special screenings designed to engage a wide audience.

    Workshops for Aspiring Filmmakers

    Among the highlights is the What’s the Story? Cyprus workshop, an intensive five-day film development writing experience tailored for eight directors and screenwriters from Cyprus and neighbouring Mediterranean countries. This workshop will run concurrently with the festival, concluding on October 17.

    Innovative Therapy Through Film

    On Sunday, the festival will host the Cinematherapy programme by Ε.Κ.Κ.Ο.ΜΕ.Δ, which merges the cinematic experience with therapeutic processes. Taking place at the Rialto Theatre at 5pm, this event promises to offer a unique perspective on the interplay between film and mental wellbeing.

    Student Filmmaking Challenge

    An exciting opportunity for students living in Cyprus is the Shoot’n’Run 2025 challenge, which invites participants to create a short film of up to three minutes in just three days. This event, implemented by the School of Fine and Applied Arts of Cyprus University of Technology, kicks off on Wednesday.

    Panel Discussions to Enhance Filmmaking

    The following day, a panel discussion titled From Idea to Screen: Making Better Short Films will take place at 6pm. This session will provide local filmmakers with insights into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by short film production. Additionally, Nenad Bogdanovic will present the European programme Creative Europe – Media, focusing on supporting European film production in today’s digital landscape.

    Special Screenings for All Ages

    The festival also promises a series of special screenings, starting with Shorts for Kids on Sunday at 12pm at the Rialto Theatre. This programme aims to introduce young audiences to the enchanting world of cinema through a selection of captivating short films from around the globe.

    On the same day, the Echoes of the Earth: Memory, Land and Future screening will occur at Dusty Munky at 10.30. This screening showcases films that explore the fragile yet unbreakable bonds between humans and the land.

    Honouring Cypriot Cinema

    On Monday, the festival will pay tribute to Irena Joannides, a distinguished Cypriot filmmaker, writer, and translator who passed away earlier this year. The Remembering Irena Joannides event will present a selection of her acclaimed short films, reflecting her vision and sensitivity that have significantly influenced contemporary Cypriot cinema.

    Exploring Contemporary Themes

    The following day will feature documentaries as part of the Cyprus: Once Now event, which delve into the contemporary Cypriots’ relationship with traditional values. This screening examines the evolving social fabric and how it connects to a rapidly changing world.

    On Tuesday, audiences can look forward to Between Reality and Fiction, a screening that showcases films blurring the lines between documentary and fiction. This event highlights characters’ inner worlds and the complexities of their narratives.

    Wednesday’s Queer Fragments screening will confront themes of intimacy, abuse, friendship, loss, and unfinished legacies, reflecting the fragility and strength of gay men’s lives.

    Final Special Screening

    Finally, the festival will present the Tales of the Unfortunate special screening, featuring four shorts that highlight the stories of those often sidelined by society, yet who share a common need to alter their trajectories.

    Free Admission to All Events

    All parallel events and special screenings during the festival have free admission and are suitable for audiences above 18, except for the Shorts for Kids programme, which welcomes younger audiences. For the complete festival programme and more information, visit www.isffc.com.cy.

  • Stricter Licence Tests for Elderly Drivers Under Consideration Across Europe

    Stricter Licence Tests for Elderly Drivers Under Consideration Across Europe

    Stricter licence tests for elderly drivers are under consideration as European countries evaluate new conditions for renewing driving licences for those aged 70 and above. The proposed framework suggests that these drivers would need to undergo an eye examination every three years to assess their ability to read road signs and recognise objects from specific distances.

    • The motivation behind these regulations is to enhance road safety while ensuring that elderly drivers can still navigate the roads responsibly.

    Balancing Safety and Mobility

    The ongoing discussion among authorities revolves around balancing the mobility rights of older drivers and the necessity for road safety. Many elderly individuals rely on their vehicles for daily activities, leading to a complex challenge for policymakers. They aim to implement measures that protect all road users while ensuring that older citizens do not lose their independence and dignity.

    Rising Concerns Over Accident Rates

    Data from various European countries highlight a concerning trend: older drivers are involved in more road accidents. Research indicates that with age, reflexes diminish, concentration wanes, and visual acuity declines—factors that severely impact driving capability. Moreover, issues such as hearing loss and reduced peripheral vision can heighten the risk of accidents.

    While many elderly drivers exhibit caution and experience, experts stress the importance of regular health checks and periodic re-examinations to ensure safety on the roads. Statistics reveal a troubling increase in the percentage of road fatalities among elderly drivers in the European Union, rising from 22% in 2010 to 28% in 2018, according to the European Parliament.

    Current Regulations in Cyprus

    In Cyprus, drivers aged over 70 must renew their licences every three years, supported by a health certificate from a doctor confirming their fitness to drive. In certain instances, authorities may require additional assessments of driving ability beyond medical evaluations to ensure compliance with safe driving standards. If significant health issues are identified, a driver’s licence may be suspended or revoked, necessitating the surrender of their driving privileges.

    The motivation behind these regulations is to enhance road safety while ensuring that elderly drivers can still navigate the roads responsibly.

    Increasing Numbers of Elderly Drivers in Cyprus

    Recent data from Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades reveals a steady rise in the number of drivers over 70 in Cyprus. The figures demonstrate a consistent increase from 60,443 in 2019 to an expected 76,514 in 2024. In contrast, the population of drivers under 70 has decreased from 627,087 in 2019 to 582,287 in 2024.

    Greece’s Approach to Elderly Drivers

    In Greece, regulations demand that drivers aged 65 and older renew their licences every three years, following assessments by medical professionals, including pathologists and ophthalmologists. For those over 80, the process becomes more stringent, requiring renewal every two years and evaluations by otolaryngologists and neurologists or psychiatrists. If any health concerns arise that could compromise driving ability, the individual will not be permitted to renew their licence.

    Proposed Changes in the UK

    The UK is considering implementing mandatory medical checks for drivers over 70, a move that could lead to thousands losing their driving licences. Under the proposed measures, these drivers would be required to undergo eye examinations every three years, assessing their capacity to read signs and recognise objects. Currently, drivers in the UK are not mandated to undergo medical assessments, leaving it up to individuals to report any health issues that may affect their driving.

    This potential shift aligns with broader European discussions aimed at re-evaluating driving regulations for older citizens, focusing on accident prevention and improved road safety. Italy is also contemplating similar measures, reflecting a growing trend across the continent.