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  • Paphos public — Paphos public: Paphos Mayor’s Public Square Vision Faces Council Resistance

    Paphos public — Paphos public: Paphos Mayor’s Public Square Vision Faces Council Resistance

    paphos public — The mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, is encountering significant opposition to his proposal for transforming the parking area on Konstantinou Kanaris street into a public square.

    • paphos public — The mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, is encountering significant opposition to his proposal for transforming the parking area on Konstantinou Kanaris street into a public square.
    • The mayor acknowledged the complexities surrounding multi-storey parking due to the presence of many Turkish Cypriot properties in the area, which complicates any potential development plans.

    Diko councillor Agathi Savvidou, articulating the majority sentiment within the municipal council, has raised concerns that the initiative would exacerbate the already pressing parking shortage in the city’s centre. She argued for a more practical approach that prioritises the needs of residents, workers, and visitors alike.

    In her plan, Savvidou suggested optimising existing public parking facilities while ensuring that the character of the area is preserved. This strategy, she noted, would be backed by comprehensive technical and economic feasibility studies.

    “A multi-storey car park would provide substantial solutions to the chronic lack of parking spaces, enhance commercial and social activity, reduce traffic congestion and contribute to the sustainable development of our historical and commercial centre,” she explained.

    Despite the backlash, Mayor Phedonos remains optimistic about the approval of his proposal, which he characterises as a minor alteration affecting only 13 to 14 parking spaces. He acknowledged the concerns voiced by local shopkeepers about potential loss of parking but highlighted the availability of approximately 600 additional parking spaces in the vicinity, asserting, “this is not the problem of our commercial centre.”

    In a direct response to Savvidou’s assertions regarding the parking shortage, Phedonos was firm: “There is no shortage.” He further dismissed the call for multi-storey car parks as a populist move, stating, “When such needs arise, we have a plot of land allocated where we can create another 300 spaces without multi-storey buildings.”

    The mayor acknowledged the complexities surrounding multi-storey parking due to the presence of many Turkish Cypriot properties in the area, which complicates any potential development plans.

  • Disabled Employee Alleges Discrimination in Promotion Process

    Disabled Employee Alleges Discrimination in Promotion Process

    An employee with disabilities claims he was unfairly denied a promotion, sparking a complaint to Cyprus’ Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights. The complaint, filed last Thursday by lawyer George Karapatakis, represents a former employee of the Limassol Water Board, which has been dissolved and integrated into the Limassol District Local Government Organisation (EOA).

    The complainant, a father of three, suffers from a serious spinal disability following surgery. Despite his challenges, he has continued to fulfil his job responsibilities from a different position with commitment. Notably, he is not wheelchair-bound and manages to commute independently.

    Karapatakis argues that his client was overlooked during a promotion process at the Limassol Water Board in spring 2024. He asserts that this decision was influenced by the employee’s health condition. To support this claim, the lawyer references the promotion of two other workers who had been appointed in the same year as his client, suggesting that the promotion criteria may not have been applied consistently.

    In his appeal, Karapatakis draws attention to the fact that individuals with disabilities are typically promoted within security bodies like the Police and National Guard without negative repercussions. He also mentions similar practices in the Civil Service and the wider public sector, implying that his client’s situation is an exception rather than the norm.

    The issue is complicated by the status of the Limassol Water Board, which no longer exists as a legal entity. In a response letter, Sokratis Metaxas, the General Director of the EOA and former director of the Water Board, stated that there is no authority to intervene in previous promotions because of this dissolution. He acknowledged that he participated in the promotion process in question.

    Metaxas addressed the situation after being informed of the complaint. While he refrained from discussing specific personal circumstances, he emphasised that the contributions of the affected employee would be recognised and valued in the future. He defended the promotion decisions made, asserting that they were in the best interest of the service and reflected appropriate sensitivity to all employees’ circumstances.

    The legal argument presented in the complaint highlights the serious implications of alleged discrimination based on disability. It references relevant legislation and European directives, stressing that employment for individuals with significant disabilities is essential for their self-esteem, social integration, and personal fulfilment. Karapatakis states, “Work not only enhances the physical and psychological well-being of these individuals but also reduces the feeling of isolation.”

    The complaint concludes with a strong assertion that discrimination has occurred in the employee’s career development due to his disability. Karapatakis hopes for decisive action from the Commissioner, urging that the alleged discrimination be addressed.

  • 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.

  • Limassol Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Reversing Bus

    Limassol Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Reversing Bus

    limassol pedestrian — limassol pedestrian — A 65-year-old Romanian man has died from injuries sustained when a public bus reversed over him in Limassol on 4 September. Doru-Gheorghe Spataceanu succumbed to his injuries yesterday afternoon after 10 days of treatment in intensive care at a private hospital, where he had been intubated.

    The tragic incident took place on Leontiou Street, close to the city’s Central Police Station. According to reports, the bus, operated by EMEL, was travelling northbound and had stopped at a bus stop outside a technical school. The driver attempted to reverse due to a parked vehicle obstructing the way ahead.

    In a moment of misfortune, the bus struck Spataceanu, who was standing behind it at the time. He suffered serious injuries, including broken ribs and damage to vital organs, which necessitated immediate ambulance transport to the hospital.

    Despite the medical team’s efforts, Spataceanu’s condition remained critical, and he was placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit. Unfortunately, after a lengthy battle for recovery, he passed away on 14 September, leaving the community to mourn.

    Limassol Traffic Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the collision and whether any safety protocols were violated during the incident.

  • 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.

  • Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine protests are currently underway in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos, organised by the online group United for Palestine CY. The demonstrations began as calls for solidarity with Palestinians echo across the island.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Pro-palestine protests: Gatherings Across Major Cities

    In Nicosia, participants started to assemble at 4:00 p.m. in Eleftheria Square. The crowd then marched along Ledras Street, returning to the Square via Onasagorou Street in a show of unity and purpose.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Meanwhile, in Larnaca, the event kicked off at 6:00 p.m. at Europe Square (Finikoudes), where demonstrators expressed their support for Palestinian rights. In Paphos, the protest began at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Hall Square (Platia Dimotikou Megarou), where the atmosphere was similarly charged with passion for the cause.

    Police Presence and Regulations

    The police have been deployed in all three cities to oversee the events, ensuring they proceed peacefully. In line with the Public Gatherings and Processions Law 151(I) of 2025, organisers are required to maintain the peaceful nature of the protests, cooperate with local authorities, and adhere to any restrictions set by law enforcement.

    In an official announcement, it was stressed that the police possess the authority to impose restrictions or disperse gatherings if they turn violent or pose a risk to public safety. This includes situations where participants may obscure their identities.

    Community Engagement and Solidarity

    The protests serve not only as a demonstration of support for Palestine but also as a platform for community engagement. Various local leaders and activists have joined the gatherings, amplifying the call for awareness on the Palestinian plight.

    As the evening progresses, the sights and sounds of the protests have filled the air, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. The sense of unity among participants reflects a growing movement within the community, manifesting in solidarity beyond borders.