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Tag: Cyprus

  • Thalassaemia — Thalassaemia Patients Represent 34% of Blood Transfusions in Cyprus

    Thalassaemia — Thalassaemia Patients Represent 34% of Blood Transfusions in Cyprus

    thalassaemia — Thalassaemia patients account for 34 per cent of all blood transfusions in Cyprus, as highlighted by Health Minister Michael Damianos during a recent press conference. The announcement comes ahead of the launch of a national blood strategy aimed at addressing the ongoing challenges in blood supply.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    • “Emergency health situations, such as pandemics or epidemics, adversely impact the availability of donors,” he stated, underscoring the need for a robust strategy to encourage blood donation.

    Damianos emphasised that the island faces significant difficulties in maintaining sufficient supplies of blood and blood products, similar to trends observed across many European nations. He identified several factors contributing to this shortage.

    Thalassaemia: Challenges in Blood Donation

    Among the issues raised by Damianos are the declining number of age-appropriate blood donors, with young people increasingly leaving Cyprus to pursue studies abroad. The Minister noted the challenges posed by a low birth rate and stricter European Union criteria for blood donors.

    “Emergency health situations, such as pandemics or epidemics, adversely impact the availability of donors,” he stated, underscoring the need for a robust strategy to encourage blood donation.

    National Blood Strategy Implementation

    The Blood Centre, which oversees blood donations in Cyprus, is responsible for implementing EU standards and World Health Organisation guidelines. The national blood donation council has been instrumental in drafting the new national blood strategy, aimed at enhancing the country’s blood collection efforts.

    “Transfusions of blood and its derivatives is not just a medical procedure, but a crucial therapeutic intervention that covers a wide range of clinical conditions,” Damianos remarked, highlighting the importance of maintaining an adequate blood supply.

    New EU Regulation and Compliance Timeline

    In addition to addressing immediate challenges, Cyprus is working towards compliance with a new European Union regulation concerning substances of human origin. This regulation, approved recently, grants Cyprus until August 7, 2027, to fully align with the new standards aimed at enhancing safety and quality in blood treatments.

    Damianos expressed a commitment to not only maintain but also improve Cyprus’ high ranking in Europe regarding blood collection, the low risk of transmitting infectious agents, and the overall quality of blood products. “Our goal is to ensure self-sufficiency based exclusively on voluntary, unpaid practices,” he added.

  • Declining Economic Sentiment in Cyprus Driven by Services and Construction Sectors

    Declining Economic Sentiment in Cyprus Driven by Services and Construction Sectors

    Economic sentiment in Cyprus has taken a downturn for the second consecutive month, with the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI-CypERC) dropping by 1.6 points in September to reach 102.1, down from 103.7 in August.

    Photo: financialmirror.com

    This decline is attributed to a noticeable weakening in business confidence, particularly within the services and construction sectors. According to the Economics Research Centre at the University of Cyprus, the fall in the Services Confidence Indicator reflects a decline in firms’ assessments of their recent performance, despite a slight improvement in turnover expectations.

    Economic sentiment: Woes in the Services Sector

    The Services Confidence Indicator has now fallen for two months running. This trend is largely due to negative evaluations by firms regarding their current business situation and turnover, which contrasts with the more optimistic outlook some firms have for future turnover.

    Challenges in Retail Trade

    In the realm of retail, a minor decrease in the Retail Trade Confidence Indicator can be observed. This reduction is primarily the result of downward revisions in sales expectations, signalling challenges for businesses in this sector.

    Construction Sector Struggles

    The construction sector also faces difficulties, with the Construction Confidence Indicator declining for the second month in a row. Deteriorating perceptions regarding order book levels and reduced expectations for employment are key factors contributing to this decline.

    Industry Confidence Shows Improvement

    In contrast to these findings, the Industry Confidence Indicator registered an increase, reflecting improved assessments of current order book levels and stock of finished products. This positive shift has been accompanied by upward revisions in production expectations, highlighting a mixed picture in Cyprus’s economic landscape.

    Consumer Confidence and Economic Uncertainty

    On the consumer front, the Consumer Confidence Indicator saw a slight uptick in September, driven by more optimistic views regarding the general economic conditions in Cyprus. However, this optimism is tempered by deteriorating expectations concerning personal financial situations and weakened intentions to make significant purchases.

    Additionally, the Economic Uncertainty Indicator for Cyprus rose sharply in September to 15.8 points, up from 11.0 in August. This rise indicates an increase in business uncertainty, particularly within the services sector. Conversely, uncertainties in other sectors and among consumers have shown a decline, suggesting a complex economic narrative.

  • Stray Cat Sterilisation Campaign Launched in Cyprus

    Stray Cat Sterilisation Campaign Launched in Cyprus

    Animal welfare commissioner Antonia Theodosiou has announced a seven-year action plan aimed at the mass-sterilisation of the island’s stray cat population, which exceeds 1 million. This initiative is part of a broader effort to manage and control the escalating number of strays.

    During her announcement, Theodosiou highlighted the existing national programme funded by the ministry of agriculture, which allocates €100,000 annually for cat sterilisation. However, she suggested that this budget is inadequate for effectively managing the stray cat population. “We support the mass sterilisation of cats [and] there is already a national program with a budget of €100,000 provided annually by the ministry of agriculture,” she stated, calling for an increase in funding.

    The action plan, developed in collaboration with various animal welfare organisations, outlines a systematic approach to address the issue over the next seven years. Theodosiou emphasised that thorough sterilisation efforts are necessary to curb the ever-growing population of stray cats.

    Concerns regarding the current funding were echoed by Charalambos Theopemptou, a member of the House environment committee and part of the Greens party. He pointed out that Cyprus may have the highest stray cat population globally and underscored the insufficiency of the current budget. “Without proper planning, we are simply spending money without getting any results. This has been proven, as we’ve been doing it for many years,” Theopemptou remarked, criticising the lack of a concrete plan to manage the spaying of strays.

    Theopemptou raised questions about the allocation of the 2025 budget, indicating that discussions regarding the next year’s budget are set to begin in the upcoming weeks. He expressed concern that the government is likely to maintain the same budget allocation, which he believes has failed to yield effective results in past years.

    Elena Loizidou, head of the animal welfare organisation Cat Alert Nicosia, also addressed the committee, noting a lack of substantial political interest in managing the stray cat population. “While the population of stray cats is increasing to unprecedented numbers (we may have reached two million) and while the responsibility for all stray animals falls under the jurisdiction of the state, the burden seems to have been placed on volunteer animal lovers,” she commented, highlighting the critical situation.

    Loizidou pointed out that the majority of strays are sterilised at private veterinary clinics, with costs borne by individual rescuers. With a budget of €100,000, only about 2,000 cats can be sterilised, which she argues does little to alleviate the growing problem. “If the state continues to be theoretically present but practically absent in this matter, thousands of kittens will die every season before they have time to open their eyes,” she warned, emphasising the urgent need for action.

    She further advocated for comprehensive legislation focusing on the treatment of stray cats, suggesting that pet owners should also be encouraged to sterilise their pets to prevent abandonment. “A prerequisite for this would of course be access to sterilisations at zero cost, so that this is achievable and a large number of sterilizations can be carried out,” she concluded, asserting the necessity for a coordinated and effective approach to the rising stray cat population.

  • Overnight pharmacies: Pharmacies Open Overnight in Cyprus on September 24

    Overnight pharmacies: Pharmacies Open Overnight in Cyprus on September 24

    overnight pharmacies — Pharmacies across Cyprus will be open overnight on Wednesday, September 24, providing essential services to those in need of medication after regular hours. Below is a list of pharmacies operating during the night in various districts, along with their addresses and contact numbers.

    Overnight pharmacies: Nicosia Pharmacies

    In Nicosia, several pharmacies will be available:

    • Paranis Michalis, Lykavittou 28D, opposite “Zorpas” bakery, Engomi. Tel: 22355715, 96777430.
    • Agapiou Eleni, Ammochostou Avenue 19, SOPAZ road, Aglandjia. Tel: 22314634, 22491526.
    • Kontopoulou Anna, Perikleous 15B, between Strovolos Avenue and Strovolos Outpatient Clinics, Strovolos. Tel: 22752927, 22879914.
    • Kyprianou – Kokkinou Dora, Charalambous Mouskou 29B, near Dasoupoli Lyceum, Strovolos. Tel: 22422470, 22428499.
    • Polykarpou Annita, Prodromou Avenue 21A, between Griva Digeni traffic lights and the former Ministry of Defence, Nicosia. Tel: 22664442, 99327642.
    • Kikas Michalis, Chalkanoros Avenue 13A, apt. 5, Dali. Tel: 22521991, 22523104.

    Limassol Pharmacies

    Limassol will also have a range of pharmacies open at night:

    • Koitseva Bozana, Pentelis 6, Ypsonas exit, Agios Silas, near Agios Savvas church. Tel: 25510101, 25932220.
    • Patellis Nomikos, Athinon 31, near “Saripolou”, opposite former “Ioannidis” bookstore, Limassol. Tel: 25362373, 96747241.
    • Kourtellou Chrystalla, Spyros Kyprianou & King Constantine 84, at Spyros Kyprianou traffic lights & Tsirion Primary School road, Limassol. Tel: 25870288, 25737455.
    • Semkina Nearchou Alina, Griva Digeni 93, next to Kokkinos dental clinic, Limassol. Tel: 25432240.
    • Pontiki Aliki Marina, King George I 34, near Germasogeia Police Station, at traffic lights, Germasogeia. Tel: 25222883, 99111144.

    Larnaca Pharmacies

    In Larnaca, the following pharmacies will be available overnight:

    • Severis Marios, Pavlos Valdaserridis 8, near “Sklavenitis” supermarket. Tel: 24639410, 24662497.
    • Tamboullis Michalis, Agios Lazaros 50-52, near Agios Lazaros church. Tel: 24628869, 24362890.
    • Nikolaou Nasia, Kastalias & Larissas 23-25, “Pavlimbeis” Shopping Center, next to “Zorpas” bakery in Kamares. Tel: 24322811, 99082025.

    Paphos Pharmacies

    Paphos residents can visit the following pharmacies:

    • Stylianou Charalampos, Achepans 4, opposite Paphos General Hospital, Anavargos. Tel: 26600020, 99351125.
    • Chrysostomou Rafaela & Eleni, Archbishop Makarios III 23, opposite “AKVA” gym, next to “CENTRO” kiosk, Chlorakas. Tel: 26942999.

    Famagusta Pharmacies

    Finally, in Famagusta, the following pharmacies will be open:

    • Lilis G. Nikos, Eleftherias 19, Deryneia. Tel: 23828701, 23740380.
    • Christofidou Nikoletta, Panos Ioannou 2, Frenaros. Tel: 23742270, 95967731.

    These overnight pharmacies serve as a vital resource for residents who require medications during late hours. It’s advisable to contact the pharmacies directly for any specific queries regarding services or availability.

  • Cannabis — 26-Year-Old Man Arrested at Larnaca Airport with 24kg of Cannabis

    Cannabis — 26-Year-Old Man Arrested at Larnaca Airport with 24kg of Cannabis

    A 26-year-old man has been arrested at Larnaca airport after customs officers discovered nearly 24 kilograms of cannabis in his luggage following his arrival from a European country.

    • A 26-year-old man has been arrested at Larnaca airport after customs officers discovered nearly 24 kilograms of cannabis in his luggage following his arrival from a European country.
    • The YKAN's Larnaca Unit is now looking into several charges against the individual, including importation, possession, and possession of narcotics with intent to supply to others.

    The incident took place shortly after 5.30pm yesterday, as part of ongoing operations led by the Police’s Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) in collaboration with the Customs Department. These operations aim to identify individuals attempting to import narcotics into Cyprus.

    Acting on intelligence gathered by YKAN members, customs officers conducted a search of the suspect as he passed through the “Nothing to Declare” channel in the arrivals area of Larnaca airport. He had just disembarked from a European flight when officers found the substantial haul.

    In total, officers seized 44 packages containing dried cannabis plant material, with the total gross weight amounting to 23 kilograms and 946 grams. The man was promptly arrested and remains in custody as police continue their investigation.

    The YKAN’s Larnaca Unit is now looking into several charges against the individual, including importation, possession, and possession of narcotics with intent to supply to others.

  • Can a National Climate Law Drive Change in Cyprus?

    Can a National Climate Law Drive Change in Cyprus?

    The question of whether a law can bring about change is particularly pertinent in the context of the climate crisis, which has become an undeniable reality. Its impacts are severe and far-reaching, affecting health, environment, and social structures globally.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Extreme weather events, such as prolonged droughts, heatwaves, and megafires, are now commonplace. These phenomena not only threaten biodiversity but also contribute to rising health issues, including heatstroke and respiratory problems linked to increased air pollution. The phenomenon of ‘climate refugees’ is becoming more prevalent, as communities are forced to migrate due to environmental degradation.

    National climate: A Call for Holistic Climate Action

    Cyprus, an island nation particularly vulnerable to climate change, stands at a crossroads. To effectively combat the climate crisis, it requires a comprehensive strategy that transcends fragmented efforts. A National Climate Law is proposed as a vital tool to establish long-term commitments and actions towards climate neutrality.

    Learning from Europe’s Example

    In Europe, 22 countries have successfully enacted similar laws, leading to measurable reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These regulations not only foster participation from the scientific community and citizens but also ensure rigorous monitoring of progress. The existence of such legal frameworks sends a powerful message to governments, reinforcing accountability and responsibility.

    Even if a law does not yield immediate results, its mere presence is symbolic. For Cyprus, a National Climate Law would signal a serious commitment to tackling the climate crisis, transforming intentions into actions.

    Climate Change: Not Just Another Concern

    Some argue that climate change is overshadowed by other pressing issues like wars, economic instability, and social inequality. However, the interconnectivity of these challenges reveals that climate change exacerbates all these problems. Economic systems are disrupted by extreme weather, while public health is strained by the effects of climate-related events.

    For instance, rising temperatures and deteriorating air quality contribute to cardiorespiratory issues and increase the prevalence of diseases transmitted by vectors, such as mosquitoes. Vulnerable populations, often residing in low-energy-efficiency homes, are disproportionately affected, facing higher energy bills and greater exposure to extreme weather.

    Defining Climate Legislation

    To effectively address the climate crisis, immediate and comprehensive solutions are essential. Climate legislation can play a pivotal role in this regard. Defined by ClientEarth, such laws typically outline a roadmap for reducing GHG emissions, often with long-term targets set for 2045 or 2050. They include legally binding targets, carbon budgets, and mechanisms for monitoring progress.

    Countries that have implemented climate laws, such as the United Kingdom, have seen significant advancements in transitioning to low-carbon electricity generation. The UK’s commitment to climate legislation resulted in a jump in low-carbon electricity generation from 20% in 2008 to 45% in 2016.

    Why Cyprus Needs Its Own Law

    While the European Climate Law mandates all Member States to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and cut GHG emissions by 55% by 2030, it focuses primarily on EU-level commitments. A national climate law tailored to Cyprus’s unique circumstances can establish specific targets and measures that are crucial for local action.

    Current EU regulations allow Cyprus to set less ambitious goals, particularly in sectors that contribute significantly to pollution. Without binding national targets, the country’s policies may remain insufficient in addressing the urgent need for climate action.

    Evaluating Cyprus’ Current Efforts

    Despite existing frameworks, Cyprus has struggled to meet its GHG reduction targets as outlined in its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP). Official data reveals that GHG emissions in 2023 are higher than in 2021, reflecting a concerning trend. Many proposed policies remain unimplemented or are delayed, with examples such as Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans failing to alter reliance on cars.

    The Potential Impact of Legislation

    The effectiveness of a National Climate Law in Cyprus remains a complex issue. While it cannot single-handedly resolve the climate crisis, it can significantly contribute to meaningful climate action if designed and executed effectively. The urgency of the climate crisis demands that we embrace all available tools, including legislation, to mitigate its impacts.

    As the climate crisis continues to unfold, the questions we face are no longer about whether it will affect us, but rather how severely it will shape our future. The introduction of a National Climate Law could be a critical step towards a more sustainable and resilient Cyprus.

  • Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Clear Skies and Temperatures Reaching 35°C

    Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Clear Skies and Temperatures Reaching 35°C

    cyprus weather — cyprus weather — The weather in Cyprus is set to be predominantly fine on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring to a high of 35°C in inland and southeastern coastal areas. According to the Department of Meteorology, while the day may start with clear skies, expect some temporary high cloud cover as the day progresses.

    • The sea conditions are projected to be smooth to slight, making it a good day for those planning to venture out onto the water.

    Cyprus weather: Winds and Sea Conditions

    Winds will initially blow from the northeast to southeast, later shifting to westerly and northwesterly in the western and southwestern regions. Currently at Force 3 Beaufort, these winds are anticipated to strengthen locally to a moderate Force 3-4 Beaufort by the afternoon.

    The sea conditions are projected to be smooth to slight, making it a good day for those planning to venture out onto the water.

    Temperature Expectations

    As previously mentioned, temperatures across various regions will vary. Inland and in the southeastern coastal areas, expect highs around 35°C. The remaining coastal areas will see temperatures reaching approximately 32°C, while in the higher mountainous regions, it will be cooler at around 26°C.

    Midweek Weather Outlook

    The forecast for Wednesday and Thursday indicates mainly clear conditions, although there will be an increase in cloud cover during midday and afternoon periods. On Thursday, residents south of the Troodos Mountains may experience isolated showers due to this cloud development.

    By Friday, expect further increases in cloud cover, which may lead to isolated rainfall, particularly affecting mountainous areas. Throughout the week, temperatures are not expected to fluctuate significantly, remaining slightly above the seasonal average.

  • Nis 2 — EU Members Urged to Implement NIS 2 Directive Amid Ongoing Cyberattack

    Nis 2 — EU Members Urged to Implement NIS 2 Directive Amid Ongoing Cyberattack

    In light of a recent cyberattack, EU members are urged to implement the NIS 2 directive to ensure a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union. The European Commission has stressed that until all 27 member states adopt this directive, vulnerabilities will persist across the bloc.

    As of now, Cyprus is among the few countries making strides in compliance, having recently completed the full implementation of the NIS 2 directive after facing non-compliance procedures. This compliance comes after Cyprus received warnings in November 2024 and a reasoned opinion in May 2025, highlighting the urgency for all states to align with the directive.

    During a midday briefing, European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier addressed concerns regarding an ongoing cyberattack that has severely disrupted check-in and boarding systems at multiple airports. Passengers are facing significant delays, though air traffic safety and control remain unaffected, providing some reassurance amidst the chaos.

    Regnier noted, “the Commission has been closely monitoring the cyberattack, both over the weekend and today, which has caused disruptions.” He assured the public that efforts are underway to restore operations swiftly. “On our side, I can confirm that the Commission is working with Eurocontrol, Enisa, national authorities, airports and airlines to restore operations and support affected passengers,” he added.

    Currently, 12 member states have successfully incorporated the NIS 2 directive into their national laws, including Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. However, until all nations comply, the risk of cyber threats remains a pressing concern.

    The urgency surrounding the NIS 2 directive and its implementation is underscored by the current situation, as it illustrates the potential vulnerabilities in the EU’s cybersecurity framework. As the bloc grapples with these challenges, the call for swift and effective action has never been more critical.

  • Teens arrested — Teens Arrested for Stealing Car and €9,000 in Cash

    Teens arrested — Teens Arrested for Stealing Car and €9,000 in Cash

    teens arrested — teens arrested — Two teenagers, aged 18 and 17, were arrested on Monday in Aradippou for stealing a rental car along with over €9,000 in cash. The incident unfolded when a man reported his rental car stolen while parked outside his residence in Larnaca.

    • However, further police investigations led to the discovery of an additional €8,000 that the girls had hidden, indicating a more extensive involvement in the theft.
    • The two teenagers are set to appear before the Larnaca district court on Tuesday, where they will face charges related to the theft.

    The victim, a permanent resident of Cyprus, stated that the car was taken along with a briefcase containing €9,300, which he intended to use for his children’s school fees. Fortunately, he was able to utilise a tracking app to locate the vehicle, which had been moved to Aradippou.

    Upon finding the car, police discovered the two girls nearby. According to the police, both had prior investigations related to car and property theft. When questioned, the teenagers confessed to stealing the car. One of them handed over €1,300, claiming it was the only money they had found.

    However, further police investigations led to the discovery of an additional €8,000 that the girls had hidden, indicating a more extensive involvement in the theft.

    The two teenagers are set to appear before the Larnaca district court on Tuesday, where they will face charges related to the theft.

  • Animal abuse — Limassol Woman Receives Suspended Sentence and Dog Ownership Ban for Animal Abuse

    Animal abuse — Limassol Woman Receives Suspended Sentence and Dog Ownership Ban for Animal Abuse

    animal abuse — A 77-year-old woman in Limassol has been handed a suspended prison sentence after being convicted of animal abuse involving dozens of dogs. The Limassol District Court has also imposed a three-year ban on her owning, maintaining, or supervising dogs.

    The court delivered various prison terms for multiple charges related to her treatment of animals, with the longest sentence set at three months. However, all sentences were suspended for three years, taking into account her age, clean criminal record, and the context of the offences, particularly the lack of malicious intent.

    The case against the woman began on 17 July 2020 when a complaint was lodged with the police by state veterinary services. An initial raid uncovered three dogs in horrific conditions on her property. The animals were found severely dehydrated and suffering from chronic ailments, with one dog being bedridden.

    Despite immediate veterinary care, one of the dogs did not survive. The other two were discovered locked in a toilet. The distressing findings prompted authorities to escalate their investigation, leading to a secondary search in early August 2020. This search revealed an additional eight dogs, all of whom were also living under appalling conditions.

    During the court proceedings, the judge took into consideration several factors, including the elapsed time since the offences and the absence of any prior convictions. The decision to suspend the sentences was made to prevent future incidents, reflecting a balance between accountability and compassion given the defendant’s circumstances.