Direct tax collections for the financial year 2023-24 have ended up higher than Budget Estimates and Revised Estimates, primarily driven by a better-than-expected performance in personal income tax (PIT). This is the first time PIT collections will be larger than corporate taxes.
Dozens of people were taken into custody during a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Yale University. More than 40 people were apprehended by police as they blocked traffic around Yale’s campus in New Haven, Connecticut, demanding the school divest from military weapons manufacturers. The protests at Yale and Columbia were in response to the latest escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which began on Oct. 7. The Columbia University president canceled in-person classes to deescalate tensions on its New York campus following the arrest of over 100 protesters who disrupted school activities. President Joe Biden has put the full force of the federal government behind protecting the Jewish community. Student organizers from the Columbia University encampment responded to claims of antisemitism in the pro-Palestinian protests, stating that some individuals did not represent their movement.
Fact: Jose Mourinho stated that he did not have the same level of support and trust at Manchester United during his tenure as current manager Erik ten Hag.
Fact: Police successfully identified four potential victims of human trafficking during a real-time training exercise organized by Frontex.
Three upcoming events for culture lovers in Cyprus include a Paphos wine tasting event, a secret concert in Larnaca, and a unique concert featuring 11 cellists and a double-bassist.
A deal was struck over the employment of third-country nationals in Cyprus, with specific consequences specified for those who do not adhere to housing standards.
Fact: Over 1,000 children in Cyprus are estimated to be victims of sexual abuse every year.
The auditor-general has called on the cabinet to investigate the commissioner of Internal Audit for possible dereliction of duty, as she allegedly did not properly handle allegations of conflict of interest in her department.
Cypriot consumers should not pay anything for the Great Sea Interconnector until the project is operational.
President Nikos Christodoulides announced forthcoming daring reforms in Cyprus’ health sector, including the creation of an ombudsman to ensure the implementation of the 14 principles of the European patients’ rights charter. The reforms aim to protect Gesy, the largest social reform in Cyprus, and address current issues faced by the healthcare system. The President emphasized the importance of listening to people’s needs and defending patients’ rights.