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  • Unions Disapprove Government’s Cost-of-Living Allowance Proposal

    Unions Disapprove Government’s Cost-of-Living Allowance Proposal

    Unions have firmly rejected the government’s proposal regarding the cost-of-living allowance (CoLA), arguing that it threatens the allowance’s integrity, according to Pasydy secretary-general Stratis Mattheou.

    Cost-of-living allowance: Significant Concessions Made by Unions

    In the ongoing negotiations surrounding CoLA, trade unions have reportedly made significant concessions. However, they remain resolute in their stance against the government’s recent proposals, which they claim would lead to the “degeneration” of the allowance. Mattheou expressed serious concerns about the government’s plan, emphasising that the proposal would only allow for CoLA to be granted when certain conditions are satisfied.

    Concerns Over CoLA’s Future

    Mattheou elaborated on the implications of the proposal, stating that it undermines the core principle of CoLA being an annual measure to counteract salary erosion caused by inflation. He noted, “The proposal leads to the degeneration of CoLA – essentially meaning that it would only be granted when certain conditions are met, whereas it should be given every year to offset salary erosion caused by inflation.”

    Negotiations Under Labour Minister’s Auspices

    The discussions have been ongoing under the auspices of Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou, with the participation of employers’ organisations Oev and Keve. Despite the unions’ willingness to accept a gradual restoration of CoLA to its full amount by 2028, along with an inflation ceiling, the latest government proposal has complicated matters.

    Government’s Linking of CoLA to Economic Metrics

    The government’s recent proposal links the allowance to both growth and inflation rates while also establishing a salary threshold above which the allowance would not be disbursed. This move has been perceived as a setback by union leaders, who feel that the employers’ organisations are trying to erode the benefits associated with CoLA.

    Unions Express Disappointment

    After a joint meeting on Friday, which included Finance Minister Makis Keravnos and Labour Minister Panayiotou, union leaders voiced their disappointment. Peo secretary-general Sotiroula Charalambous described the meeting as a serious setback, stating, “Unfortunately, with what we heard today, we have gone backwards. It is obvious that we are at an impasse.” She stressed the unions’ position that CoLA must be applicable to all workers.

    Future Meetings and Actions

    In light of the current deadlock, unions plan to convene again on Monday afternoon to discuss potential further actions. While they have not ruled out additional measures, the exact nature of these actions remains to be determined.

    Labour Ministry’s Stance

    The labour ministry responded to the situation by stating that “intensive efforts” to reach a workable agreement will continue. They noted that both unions and employers have demonstrated a positive approach throughout the negotiations, suggesting a willingness to find common ground.

    Employers’ Perspective on Negotiations

    Philokypros Rousounidis, secretary-general of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), highlighted the employers’ commitment to maintaining social dialogue. He acknowledged the dissatisfaction on both sides but expressed a desire to avoid escalating tensions. Rousounidis stated, “We are not very satisfied either, but we do not want to escalate the situation further and will await the next steps.”

    The Path Ahead for CoLA

    The ongoing discussions surrounding the cost-of-living allowance are crucial for many workers, particularly in the context of rising living costs and inflation. Both sides appear to be at a critical juncture, and the outcome of the negotiations will significantly impact the welfare of employees across various sectors. As unions prepare for their upcoming meeting, the focus will remain on securing a fair and sustainable solution for the cost-of-living allowance that safeguards workers’ rights.

  • Demosthenous murder — Nicosia Man Arrested in Connection with Demosthenous Murder

    Demosthenous murder — Nicosia Man Arrested in Connection with Demosthenous Murder

    demosthenous murder — demosthenous murder — Police arrested a 45-year-old man from Nicosia on Saturday in connection with the murder of Stavros Demosthenous in Limassol. The arrest followed the discovery of a motorcycle, believed to have been used by the perpetrators to flee the scene of the crime.

    The suspect is the registered owner of the large-capacity dark-coloured scooter located earlier that day. Authorities plan to transfer the vehicle to Limassol Police Headquarters for further examination and questioning.

    Investigators suspect that another vehicle aided the suspects’ escape after they set fire to the van used during the murder. Senior members of the police force are present at Limassol CID headquarters as they intensify their investigations.

    An autopsy conducted on Demosthenous’s body at Nicosia General Hospital revealed that he suffered severe craniocerebral trauma caused by at least two bullets to the head. This gruesome finding, detailed by forensic pathologist Nikolas Charalambous, points to the violent nature of the attack.

    Evidence suggests that the shooter was skilled, as Demosthenous’s vehicle bore approximately ten bullet holes from an automatic weapon. The police are collecting witness statements and examining various pieces of evidence, including visual footage from the vicinity.

    The investigation continues to unfold as authorities piece together the events surrounding the murder. The community is left grappling with the shock of such a violent incident, while police work diligently to unravel the details and ensure justice is served.

  • Thalassemia — Cyprus Institute Launches Innovative Gene Therapy Project for Thalassemia

    Thalassemia — Cyprus Institute Launches Innovative Gene Therapy Project for Thalassemia

    A new gene therapy project at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics aims to tackle the root cause of beta-thalassemia, a prevalent inherited blood disorder in Cyprus.

    • A new gene therapy project at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics aims to tackle the root cause of beta-thalassemia, a prevalent inherited blood disorder in Cyprus.
    • As the project progresses, the potential impact on the lives of those affected by beta-thalassemia could be transformative, moving towards a future where the disease is no longer a lifelong burden.

    Addressing a Critical Health Challenge

    The Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department (MGTD) has unveiled the BETA-BET: Targeted Base Editing for Beta Thalassemia project, designed to develop a one-time, curative therapy. This initiative specifically targets the HBBIVSI-110 mutation, the most common cause of beta-thalassemia on the island.

    Understanding Beta-Thalassemia

    Beta-thalassemia is a serious hereditary condition resulting from mutations in the β-globin gene (HBB), which plays a vital role in producing haemoglobin, the protein responsible for oxygen transport in the blood. Individuals affected by this disorder often require lifelong blood transfusions to manage chronic anaemia and compensate for their body’s inadequate production of functional red blood cells.

    Project Timeline and Funding

    The BETA-BET project commenced on June 1, 2025, and is set to last for 24 months. It has a total funding of €198.83 million, with financial support from the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), the European Union, and the Republic of Cyprus.

    Building on Previous Success

    This new project builds on a prior RIF-funded initiative that involved collaboration with George Papanikolaou Hospital, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and the University of Freiburg. That earlier study successfully evaluated gene-editing tools in stem cells from individuals with two copies of the HBBIVSI-110 mutation, demonstrating the potential to correct genetic defects and restore normal red blood cell production.

    Scientific Goals of the BETA-BET Project

    The BETA-BET project has outlined two primary scientific objectives. The first goal is to expand and validate the effectiveness of “base editing” technology for a broader patient demographic known as compound heterozygotes. These patients carry the HBBIVSI-110 mutation alongside another mutation in the same gene, representing a significant portion of the thalassemia population. In fact, globally, compound heterozygotes are over three times more common than homozygotes, making this research particularly relevant in regions such as Greece and Egypt, where the HBBIVSI-110 mutation is prevalent in over 19 per cent of the population.

    Innovative Gene Editing Technology

    Base editing acts like a microscopic “biological pencil and eraser,” allowing scientists to precisely identify and correct a single “letter” error in the DNA sequence without cutting the DNA strands. This method provides a safer and more controlled approach to gene therapy compared to traditional techniques, paving the way for broader clinical application.

    New Delivery Methods for Gene Therapy

    The second objective involves the development of a cutting-edge delivery platform using engineered virus-like particles (eVLPs). These particles function as “microscopic delivery drones,” designed to transport gene-editing tools directly to blood-producing stem cells. This innovative delivery method could ultimately simplify the treatment process, allowing it to be administered via a simple injection rather than the current complex and costly procedure that requires the removal, editing, and reinfusion of stem cells.

    Collaboration and Expertise

    The project is being coordinated by Dr Petros Patsali, Associate Scientist at MGTD, alongside a team that includes Dr Carsten W. Lederer, Head of Department, Dr Nikoletta Papaioannou, Postdoctoral Researcher, and Dr Panayiota Papasavva, Hematologist and Clinician-Researcher. They are collaborating with a network of national and international partners, including Dr Soteroula Christou from the State Health Services Organization’s Thalassaemia Clinic in Cyprus, Prof Dr Toni Cathomen from the University Medical Center Freiburg in Germany, Dr Annarita Miccio from the Imagine Institute of Genetic Diseases in France, and Dr Maria N. Dimopoulou from Laiko General Hospital in Athens.

    A Promising Future for Thalassemia Patients

    The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics has stated, “The BETA-BET programme represents a crucial step toward a potential cure for the majority of people living with thalassemia.” By broadening the therapy’s reach and developing a safer delivery system, the institute believes this research could offer a personalised, one-time treatment for many patients who currently depend on lifelong transfusions.

    As the project progresses, the potential impact on the lives of those affected by beta-thalassemia could be transformative, moving towards a future where the disease is no longer a lifelong burden.

  • Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Fine Conditions with Temperatures Reaching 29°C

    Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather Forecast: Fine Conditions with Temperatures Reaching 29°C

    cyprus weather — cyprus weather — The weather in Cyprus is expected to be mostly sunny, with temperatures nearing 29°C throughout Friday. Locally, there may be intermittent cloud cover, but overall conditions are favourable for outdoor activities.

    Cyprus weather: Wind Patterns and Sea Conditions

    Initially, winds will be variable and light, reaching about 3 Beaufort. As the day progresses, these winds will shift to a predominantly southwesterly to northwesterly direction, becoming light to moderate, ranging from 3 to 4 Beaufort. The sea conditions will remain smooth to slight, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy maritime activities.

    Temperature Variations Across Cyprus

    Temperature readings across the island will vary slightly based on location:

    • Inland: 29°C
    • South and East Coasts: 27°C
    • West and North Coasts: 26°C
    • Highest Mountains: 19°C

    Upcoming Weather Trends

    Looking ahead to the weekend and into Monday, residents can expect similar weather patterns with increased cloud cover at times. On Monday, there is a slight chance of isolated showers in mountainous regions, but overall, temperatures are not predicted to fluctuate significantly over the next few days. This consistency in weather aligns closely with the average climatic values for this time of year, providing a stable forecast for locals and visitors alike.

  • 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.