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  • MoAD Welcomes Italian and Greek Artists for Inaugural Exhibition

    MoAD Welcomes Italian and Greek Artists for Inaugural Exhibition

    The newly-established Museum of Art and Design (MoAD) will host its inaugural exhibition on Friday, October 17, showcasing the works of prominent Italian and Greek artists. This event marks a significant milestone in Cyprus’s cultural landscape, highlighting the museum’s commitment to becoming a premier destination for international contemporary art.

    Photo: financialmirror.com

    Moad: Celebrating Artistic Talent

    The exhibition will feature acclaimed creators Leonardo Blanco, an Italian mixed-media artist, and Greek painter Mara Tsafantaki. Both artists are known for their innovative approaches and have made substantial contributions to the contemporary art scene.

    Photo: financialmirror.com

    Leonardo Blanco: A Multidisciplinary Visionary

    Leonardo Blanco’s artistic practice encompasses painting, sculpture, and installation. His works are held in notable public and private collections around the globe, with permanent installations in places such as San Marino, Strasbourg at the Council of Europe, Nazareth at the Basilica of the Annunciation, and Beijing at the Water Cube Museum. In 2009, Blanco proudly represented the Republic of San Marino at the 53rd Venice Biennale of Visual Arts. He has also completed several prestigious public commissions, including a monumental steel sculpture located at the entrance to San Marino’s city centre.

    Mara Tsafantaki: A Journey Through Illustration

    Mara Tsafantaki, a graduate of the Athens School of Fine Arts, has garnered recognition for her work in both painting and illustration. Under the guidance of Professor Chronis Botsoglou, Tsafantaki honed her craft and has since showcased her artwork in various solo and group exhibitions across Greece and internationally. Since 2003, she has illustrated numerous children’s books published by leading Greek publishing houses such as Patakis and Papadopoulos. Notably, her illustration for “Little Leo and the Circusmicroworld,” authored by Kostas Charalas, was longlisted for the 2006 Greek State Illustration Awards and subsequently published in South Korea.

    Engaging Talks and Diverse Perspectives

    The opening event will also feature a keynote address by Italian designer Giulio Masciocchi, known for his refined aesthetic and multidisciplinary practice that spans concept and product design, interior design, and graphic communication. His contributions have significantly influenced the collections of esteemed Italian brands in fashion and design.

    Masciocchi founded G.DISEGNI in 2016, a design studio dedicated to applied arts, working across various creative fields, including textile and porcelain design, product development, and fashion design. His work embodies a distinctive contemporary vision that resonates well with the themes explored in the exhibition.

    Event Details and Public Engagement

    The inaugural reception at MoAD will take place on Friday, October 17, from 6 to 9 PM, followed by public viewing sessions on Saturday and Sunday, October 18-19, from 5 to 8 PM. This exhibition not only showcases the talent of Blanco and Tsafantaki but also represents a broader commitment to fostering dialogue among diverse artistic communities.

    Maria Ignatiou Shiakalli, the founder and Artistic Director of MoAD, expressed her enthusiasm: “This inaugural exhibition represents our commitment to bringing world-class contemporary art to Cyprus while fostering dialogue among international artistic communities.” She emphasised the importance of the event in promoting cultural exchange and engagement through art.

    Exploring Cross-Cultural Narratives

    The works of Tsafantaki and Blanco are chosen for their ability to engage with global cultural narratives. Their presentations promise to invite visitors into a compelling exploration of cross-cultural expression. Shiakalli noted, “Selected for their innovative approaches and universal themes, Tsafantaki and Blanco will present new series that reflect distinct cultural perspectives.” This aspect of their work aligns with MoAD’s mission to become a leading platform for contemporary art.

    A Vision for the Future

    Maria Ignatiou Shiakalli has been actively involved in art education, curation, and philanthropy for two decades, working on prestigious international projects. Recently, she was appointed as the exclusive art consultant for Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi, contributing her expertise to one of the UAE’s ambitious architectural projects. In 2023, she was selected to create the monumental artwork Falcon’s Flight, symbolising the emirates’ vision for the future.

    Yorgos Taxiarchopoulos, serving as Chief Curatorial Strategist at MoAD, aims to bring institutional credibility and global network expertise to the museum. He is also the Artistic Director of the Limassol Municipal Arts Centre and the founder of ACEY Europe, a non-profit entity focused on arts and culture in Greece.

    A Cultural Landmark in Nicosia

    The Museum of Art and Design is conveniently located at 37 Demostheni Severi Street, near the Foreign Ministry and the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. For more information about the inaugural exhibition and future events, interested parties are encouraged to call +35722011349.

  • Larnaca collision: Three Hospitalised in Five-Car Collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue

    Larnaca collision: Three Hospitalised in Five-Car Collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue

    larnaca collision — A five-car collision on Larnaca’s Eleftheria Avenue has left three drivers hospitalised, following a crash that occurred on Monday evening.

    • larnaca collision — A five-car collision on Larnaca's Eleftheria Avenue has left three drivers hospitalised, following a crash that occurred on Monday evening.
    • The incident took place around 5:30pm at the Rizoelia roundabout, where the vehicles collided, resulting in injuries to three of the drivers involved.
    • According to local police, the three drivers were taken to a nearby hospital for medical examinations to assess their injuries. Fortunately, there were no other passengers in any of the vehicles.
    • This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the area. As investigations continue, local residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant while driving.

    The incident took place around 5:30pm at the Rizoelia roundabout, where the vehicles collided, resulting in injuries to three of the drivers involved.

    According to local police, the three drivers were taken to a nearby hospital for medical examinations to assess their injuries. Fortunately, there were no other passengers in any of the vehicles.

    In the aftermath of the crash, Larnaca traffic police have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the incident, including any factors that may have contributed to the crash.

    This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the area. As investigations continue, local residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant while driving.

  • A e: Doctors Criticise A&E Raids by Audit Office Officials

    A e: Doctors Criticise A&E Raids by Audit Office Officials

    a e — a e — Doctors are voicing their outrage following the unexpected overnight raids by Audit Office officials at the accident and emergency departments of both Nicosia and Limassol general hospitals on October 1. The inspections were conducted in a manner deemed offensive by the medical community, raising serious concerns about patient privacy and the integrity of medical data.

    Sotiris Koumas, president of the Pancyprian Union of Government Doctors, expressed his frustration about the demands placed on the medical staff. He stated, “The manner in which the inspections were conducted and the demands made by Audit Office officials were offensive and certainly exceeded limits in some cases, as they asked doctors, amongst other things, to prove they had served a patient by presenting data in the electronic files of General Healthcare System beneficiaries.”

    Koumas highlighted that no entity has the right to access the medical data of any patient who has visited the A&E, questioning the relevance of patient medical information to the purpose of the Audit Office’s inspections. “This is also a violation of patients’ rights, amongst many other things,” he added.

    During the raids, doctors on duty were reportedly asked to present their identity cards to verify their registration as medical professionals on duty that night. Koumas commented, “In other words, you call a doctor to leave his post whilst they are on active duty, and you ask them to show you their identity card. I think this is not the way for the Audit Office to conduct an inspection.”

    Adding to the controversy, officials are said to have contacted on-call doctors at home to assess their response times. Koumas explained, “At 1 am and 2 am they were telephoning doctors to check whether they would respond. If this is indeed true, it means that other serious issues arise.” These actions have prompted the union to consider the implications of such practices on the working environment for medical professionals.

    While Koumas acknowledged the Audit Office’s mandate to investigate potential abuses of power or misuse of public funds, he firmly reiterated that this does not justify the demand to access patient files. He stated, “With all due respect to the Audit Office and the Auditor General, access to patient files is permitted only to their doctor, and this is why only doctors have access to GHS files.”

    The union leader expressed concern about some colleagues who complied with requests to access patient files to confirm their treatments. He noted, “It is also very serious that some colleagues accepted and accessed the files of patients they had served in order to prove it.”

    Koumas concluded that the actions of both the audit officials and the doctors who acquiesced to these demands reflect a troubling environment that requires further scrutiny and discussion. He remarked, “The specific behaviours, both from the audit officials and from the doctors themselves, are the result of a climate that has been created and requires both analysis and criticism. Unfortunately, we have set a precedent.”

  • Arrest of Russian-Israeli Citizen in Larnaca Linked to Sea Piracy Charges

    Arrest of Russian-Israeli Citizen in Larnaca Linked to Sea Piracy Charges

    A Russian-Israeli citizen, Alexei Kartzgor, has been arrested in Larnaca under an Interpol warrant for his alleged involvement in sea piracy.

    • A Russian-Israeli citizen, Alexei Kartzgor, has been arrested in Larnaca under an Interpol warrant for his alleged involvement in sea piracy.
    • Following his arrest, Kartzgor is set to appear before the Larnaca District Court on Monday, where proceedings will begin to address the extradition request from Russia.

    The 47-year-old was apprehended on Saturday at Larnaca port, following an international arrest warrant issued by Russian authorities. According to a police spokesperson, this arrest is connected to an old case involving the hijacking of the cargo ship Arctic Sea in the Baltic Sea.

    Kartzgor’s arrest has garnered attention, particularly after reports from Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth confirmed the details. It is believed that he arrived in Cyprus by ship, unaware of the pending warrant against him.

    In a twist, it has been reported that Kartzgor was previously arrested in connection with the same case. He was released on bail in 2009 but subsequently fled, prompting Russian officials to seek his extradition.

    Following his arrest, Kartzgor is set to appear before the Larnaca District Court on Monday, where proceedings will begin to address the extradition request from Russia.

  • Cyprus 2026: Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency: A Challenge with Tourism Benefits

    Cyprus 2026: Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency: A Challenge with Tourism Benefits

    cyprus 2026 — cyprus 2026 — Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity for tourism growth in the small nation, home to just over one million residents. As the country prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, it has outlined plans to host approximately 260 informal meetings, which are anticipated to generate around 62,500 overnight hotel stays during the first half of the year.

    Cyprus 2026: Boosting Tourism During Off-Peak Months

    The six-month presidency is strategically positioned in a period typically characterised by lower occupancy rates in hotels across Cyprus. Christos Aggelides, general manager of the Pasyxe tourism body, highlighted the expected positive impact on the tourism sector: “There will be 62,500 overnight stays due to the Cypriot presidency which will directly affect hotels and the tourism sector. It will have a positive effect because it will take place in a period when occupancy is not so high.”

    Key Venues and Infrastructure

    Meetings will primarily take place at the Filoxenia conference centre, which is equipped with five main halls and smaller meeting rooms capable of accommodating up to 800 participants. This venue boasts modern technological infrastructure and interpretation systems that meet EU standards, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees. Additionally, a renovated building, previously part of the higher hotel institute, will be designated as the press centre for journalists covering the presidency.

    Financial Considerations and Budget Management

    As Cyprus prepares to host the presidency, officials have indicated that the country will bear most of the costs associated with the event, including expenses for meeting rooms, equipment, security, translation services, and catering. The deputy ministry for European affairs has made it clear that efforts are underway to minimise the burden on the state budget while maintaining high-quality service standards.

    To further ease financial pressures, Cyprus plans to invite sponsorships from companies and organisations, which could help offset some costs. The deputy ministry emphasised that while Cyprus will remain responsible for the majority of expenses, some meetings may benefit from additional funding from the EU or other bodies.

    Transparency and Cost Control Initiatives

    Budget transparency and cost control are top priorities for the government as it approaches the presidency. Akis Kikas, audit director of the contact committee of the European Court of Auditors, stated, “Transparency is ensured as in all budgets. We always make sure that there are no wasteful expenses and that basic transparency exists. All funds included in each budget are approved by you.”

    The finance ministry reiterated that the budget for the presidency is integrated within the broader state budget and adheres to spending limits set by relevant EU directives. Officials are confident that the amounts allocated for the presidency will not threaten the sustainability of public finances.

    Limited EU Funding for the Presidency

    In terms of EU funding, the finance ministry clarified that council presidencies are generally funded by national resources rather than EU contributions. Only a small portion of meetings—approximately 30—will receive partial funding from the EU or other organisations, which could cover costs like accommodation, transport, or general conference expenses.

    As the ministry pointed out, “The contribution of the European Union to the budget for Cyprus’ presidency of the council is essentially negligible.” This reinforces the need for Cyprus to manage its finances prudently while ensuring that the presidency meets the expectations of both national and European stakeholders.

    Logistics and Hospitality Standards

    The logistics surrounding the presidency will also require careful planning. Luxury vehicles, buses, and minibuses will be used to transport heads of delegations and delegates. Security and traffic management will be coordinated by the relevant authorities, ensuring a safe and smooth experience for all participants.

    In a nod to Cypriot culture, the deputy ministry for European affairs assured that catering services will showcase the country’s hospitality, professionalism, and commitment to environmental sustainability. All services will undergo quality control to maintain high standards.

    A Balancing Act for Cyprus

    As Cyprus gears up for its presidency, officials face the delicate task of ensuring efficient organisation while controlling costs and maintaining transparency. The country aims to deliver a strong national message and reaffirm its position within the European Union through effective management of this prestigious role.

    The challenges ahead are significant, but with careful planning and a proactive approach, Cyprus is poised to make its presidency a success, benefiting not only from increased tourism but also from enhanced visibility on the European stage.

  • Cyprus sheftalia — Cyprus Sheftalia Ranked Second Best Sausage Dish in the World

    Cyprus sheftalia — Cyprus Sheftalia Ranked Second Best Sausage Dish in the World

    Cyprus sheftalia has earned the impressive title of the second best sausage dish globally, as recognised by Food Atlas. This traditional delicacy, often enjoyed in pitta alongside souvlakia to create a delightful mixed kebab, has outshone familiar English favourites like Toad in the Hole and Pigs in Blankets.

    Cyprus sheftalia: A Taste of Tradition

    Sheftalia is a unique dish that combines minced pork and lamb, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of cinnamon. The meat is mixed with chopped red onion and parsley, then wrapped in caul fat—a delicate membrane that encases the stomachs of various animals such as cows, sheep, and pigs. This wrapping not only enhances the flavour but also helps maintain the juiciness of the meat during cooking.

    The Cooking Process

    Once prepared, the sheftalia mixture is formed into small sausage shapes, skewered, and grilled to perfection. As the sausages cook, the caul fat renders down, creating a crispy, caramelised exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender and juicy interior. This process is a key aspect of what makes sheftalia a beloved dish in Cyprus and now recognised worldwide.

    The Journey to Recognition

    Food Atlas highlighted the rich flavours and textures of sheftalia, placing it just behind the Greek dish Spetsofai in their rankings. The criteria for this judgement reflect a deep appreciation for not just taste, but also the cultural significance of the dish. The origins of the name sheftalia are debated, with theories suggesting it either derives from the Turkish word ‘seftali’, meaning peach, likely referencing the sausage’s texture, or is named after a street vendor credited with its invention.

    Global Sausage Rankings

    Sheftalia’s recognition comes as part of a broader celebration of sausage diversity around the world. Following closely behind in the rankings are iconic dishes such as Chorizo a la Parrilla from Argentina, Ovos mexidos com Farinheira from Portugal, and Nem Nuong from Vietnam. Each dish reflects its unique cultural heritage and culinary traditions.

    A Culinary Legacy

    The acclaim for sheftalia not only highlights its deliciousness but also underscores the importance of preserving traditional recipes that connect us to our cultural roots. As it gains international recognition, Cyprus sheftalia stands as a testament to the island’s rich culinary history and the joy of sharing food that brings people together.

  • Protesting: President Christodoulides Affirms Right to Protest Amid Police Controversy

    Protesting: President Christodoulides Affirms Right to Protest Amid Police Controversy

    protesting — President Nikos Christodoulides has stated that “no one is banned from protesting,” addressing concerns following a heavy-handed police response to a demonstration outside the foreign ministry on Thursday night. His remarks came during his arrival at a rural culture festival in the village of Lofou, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to the right to protest.

    On Thursday, demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition to Israel’s interception of boats heading towards Gaza, part of the Gaza Sumud flotilla. The protest escalated when riot police intervened, deploying pepper spray and engaging in physical confrontations with attendees.

    “The police have taken a very specific position,” Christodoulides remarked, defending recent legislation that imposes stricter regulations on protests, which had come under fire following the events of Thursday night. He stated that protests and the right to demonstrate are “absolutely respected and guaranteed” in Cyprus.

    The president acknowledged ongoing criticism of police actions, urging a balanced view of the circumstances under which security forces operate. He mentioned that any alleged excessive use of force would be investigated, assuring that appropriate measures would be taken if necessary.

    Following the protest, the political landscape shifted with Akel condemning the police’s response as an “unprovoked attack.” The party called for further protests, stating, “Akel calls on everyone who does not tolerate state repression and the government’s subservience to the Netanyahu regime to mobilise.”

    Volt echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that “violent repression of peaceful demonstrations has no place in a democratic and European country.” They condemned the police violence against demonstrators advocating for Palestinian rights, asserting that such actions undermine the principles of democracy.

    Accounts from the protest highlighted the chaotic scene, with a journalist from Haravgi reporting being injured during the police intervention. Veteran journalist Christos Christofides described being “thrown to the ground” amid the turmoil, thanking those who assisted him in escaping potential injury from the crowd.

    The union of Cyprus journalists condemned the police’s actions, noting that one of their members, despite identifying as a journalist, faced violence from officers. They called for an investigation led by Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis, demanding accountability for the errant officers involved.

    The police response was justified by their statement that the protestors had blocked a lane of traffic outside the foreign ministry, necessitating intervention to clear the area. This incident in Nicosia was part of a broader wave of global protests against Israel’s military actions, which saw thousands taking to the streets in cities worldwide including Barcelona, Milan, and Paris.

  • Cyprus as India’s Strategic Gateway to Europe Highlights Economic Opportunities

    Cyprus as India’s Strategic Gateway to Europe Highlights Economic Opportunities

    gateway — Cyprus serves as India’s natural gateway to Europe, a statement emphasised by India’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, Manish, during the Cyprus Forum 2025 in Nicosia. His remarks highlighted the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) in enhancing global connectivity and trade.

    Gateway: IMEC: A Transformational Initiative

    At the forum, High Commissioner Manish outlined India’s vision for IMEC, describing it as a vital connectivity project aimed at lowering logistics costs, reducing transport times, and creating new trade pathways that connect Asia, the Gulf region, and Europe.

    Opportunities for Collaboration with Cyprus

    Manish emphasised the strategic positioning of Cyprus in this framework, suggesting numerous avenues for bilateral cooperation. He mentioned shipping, renewable energy including green hydrogen, digital trade facilitation, financial services, and education as key areas where India and Cyprus could work together.

    A Shared Vision for Sustainable Development

    During his speech, the High Commissioner reflected on the shared commitment of both nations towards sustainable development and rules-based international cooperation. This aligns with IMEC’s focus on green energy, digital integration, and inclusive growth.

    Building on Previous Diplomatic Engagements

    This dialogue follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June, which laid the groundwork for deeper bilateral engagement. Modi engaged in extensive discussions with President Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, focusing on enhancing cooperation across trade, investment, security, and technology sectors.

    Emphasising Stability and Connectivity

    During their June meeting, both leaders acknowledged IMEC’s transformative potential and reiterated their commitment to stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East. They stressed the importance of fostering deeper engagement and connections from the Indian subcontinent through the Middle East to Europe.

    Encouraging Indian Investment in Cypriot Shipping

    Recognising Cyprus’s strategic role, both Modi and Christodoulides welcomed the possibility of Indian shipping companies establishing a presence in Cyprus. They encouraged maritime cooperation through joint ventures between Cyprus-based and Indian maritime service providers, aimed at strengthening economic and logistical ties.

    Cyprus as a Regional Hub

    The speakers at the forum also acknowledged Cyprus’s potential to act as a regional hub for transshipment, storage, distribution, and logistics within the IMEC initiative. This vision underscores the importance of Cyprus in creating a robust economic corridor linking these regions.

  • No Lives at Risk Despite Cancellation of Neonatal ICU Contract

    No Lives at Risk Despite Cancellation of Neonatal ICU Contract

    neonatal icu — neonatal icu — No lives are at risk as a result of the cancellation of a contract for the new neonatal intensive care unit at the Makarios children’s hospital in Nicosia, according to Charalambos Charilaou, spokesman for the state health services organisation (Okypy).

    • As the community awaits further developments, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable patients in the neonatal unit.

    Neonatal icu: Contract Cancellation Explained

    On Saturday, Charilaou clarified that the decision to cancel the contract was necessary due to its problematic nature and deadlock. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, he stated, “we did what we had to do” and emphasized that the existing neonatal unit is well-equipped and staffed, highlighting its capability despite spatial limitations.

    Future Plans for the Unit

    Charilaou noted that the contract was terminated with the contractor’s consent, eliminating potential legal complications. Okypy has successfully recovered €1.3 million worth of guarantees and is optimistic about finding a new contractor. The hope is to complete the new building by September 2027, with the new contract mirroring the original value of €6.4 million.

    Concerns from the Community

    Despite official assurances, local advocacy groups have expressed their dissatisfaction. The miracle babies association described Okypy’s timeline for the new unit as “an illusory dream for premature babies and their families.”

    Political Reactions

    Criticism has also emerged from several MPs. Disy MP Savia Orfanidou expressed her disappointment about the lack of progress, while Akel MP Nikos Kettiros pointed out that the construction site has seen minimal activity, noting, “a fence was placed, and a couple of holes drilled in the ground.”

    Kettiros condemned the government’s handling of the situation, accusing them of “peddling promises and hot air.” Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides raised alarm about the existing neonatal intensive care unit operating at 150 per cent capacity, stating, “You realise that this puts at risk the lives of newborns.”

    As the community awaits further developments, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable patients in the neonatal unit.

  • Takata airbag — Takata Airbag Recalls Prompt 1,600 Appointments by End of October

    Takata airbag — Takata Airbag Recalls Prompt 1,600 Appointments by End of October

    Approximately 1,600 appointments have been scheduled by 31 October for corrective measures related to Takata airbag recalls, according to Giorgos Louka, Director General of the Road Transport Department.

    The department suspended MOT certificates for vehicles with pending airbag replacement recalls from 3 October, based on the eight-month deadline established under Circular 8/2025 issued in February 2025. Vehicles with appointments scheduled by 31 October received temporary suspension extensions.

    As of 30 September, approximately 16,900 vehicles remained with outstanding recall cases, representing roughly 20 per cent of the original 81,000 affected vehicles. This increase in appointments suggests a notable response from vehicle owners, particularly as Toyota alone arranged an additional 1,300 appointments in recent days.

    Takata airbag: Focus on Affected Vehicles

    Toyota and Honda owners account for 7,000 of the outstanding recall cases. Specifically, Toyota vehicles represent around 5,000 owners who have yet to respond to recall notifications, while Honda owners account for approximately 2,000 vehicles.

    “While Toyota had scheduled around 300 appointments, mobilisation over the past one to two days made it possible to arrange another 1,300 appointments before the deadline expires,” Louka told the Cyprus News Agency. This surge in appointments has prompted the Director General to urge vehicle owners who have not yet acted to do so without delay.

    Importance of Timely Action

    “Recalls are part of everyday life; we as consumers must take care,” Louka stated, emphasising the safety implications of the Takata airbag issue. He called for the public to proceed with corrective measures, recognising the inconvenience yet highlighting the importance of prioritising safety.

    The Road Transport Department has been inundated with calls regarding recall deadlines, prompting Louka to advise vehicle owners to verify the expiration of their eight-month deadline through the department’s website. He stressed the necessity of contacting dealers and manufacturers for all types of recalls, as companies are obligated to keep consumers informed.

    MOT Retesting and Enforcement Policies

    For vehicles whose MOT certificates are suspended due to non-compliance, retesting will be mandated following the completion of the airbag replacement. This requirement adds an additional administrative burden for those who fail to act in a timely manner.

    In terms of enforcement, the police have clarified that they will issue traffic fines for cases involving suspended MOT certificates when immediate immobilisation is not applicable. Officers will also encourage drivers to arrange for repairs, facilitating MOT certificate renewals.

    The police reiterated their commitment to enforcing driving prohibition measures, directing drivers to use tow trucks when vehicles face immediate immobilisation orders or exhibit serious mechanical issues.