GOP opposition to child tax credit bill could be softening in Senate

GOP opposition to child tax credit bill could be softening in Senate

Bipartisan legislation to cut taxes for working families and extend certain corporate tax breaks has stalled in the Senate over Republican opposition. The bill includes an expansion of the child tax credit, which could lift 400,000 children out of poverty. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer has indicated that the bill could be considered for a vote after the April 15 tax deadline. Some GOP lawmakers are willing to support the bill with small changes that the Democratic sponsor has offered, but negotiations with Sen. Mike Crapo have been at a standstill. Trillions of dollars in tax cuts enacted under President Trump are set to expire in 2025, leading to discussions about future tax policy.

Pro-Palestine protestors to gather in Nicosia marking six months since October 7

Pro-Palestine protestors to gather in Nicosia marking six months since October 7

Hundreds are gathering in Nicosia on April 7 to mark six months since the Israeli offensive in Gaza. Organisers are calling it a “genocidal crime” and demanding an end to the blockade. The protest, co-organised by various left-wing groups, highlights the Palestinians’ struggles with food and medical shortages. The demonstration criticizes the Cypriot government’s support for the “Amalthea programme,” seen as a public relations move that doesn’t address the core issue of the blockade.

Government , ‘addressing’ fuel price increases

Government , ‘addressing’ fuel price increases

The government is addressing increases in the retail price of fuel with targeted measures and by strengthening the incomes of the middle class. The government had implemented a blanket fuel tax subsidy last year, but elected not to extend it past the end of last month. A forthcoming “green tax” will be implemented later this year, potentially adding eight cents per litre to the retail price of fuel. The government is also looking to address the issue of multiple pensions for high-level government officials, aiming to replace them with a one-time lump sum payment. Changing the constitution to address multiple pensions is not an option as it would require the consent of the Turkish Cypriot community.

A source of pleasure for gourmets worldwide

A source of pleasure for gourmets worldwide

Voatsiperifery is considered one of the best peppers in the world, with a unique taste, more flavor, and less pungency than other peppers. It is endemic to Madagascar and is a source of income for people living near forests. The wild pepper is under threat of extinction and is contributing to the destruction of its habitat. Efforts are being made to domesticate the pepper to protect it and promote forest conservation.

Our View: Government hypocrisy regarding the environment is sickening

Our View: Government hypocrisy regarding the environment is sickening

Fact: Cyprus is being taken to the European Court of Justice for failure to protect natural habitats, as announced by the EU in March.

WTI rises to $86.20 on threats against Israel

WTI rises to $86.20 on threats against Israel

The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price is trading around .20 a barrel in Asian trading on Friday, with the rise attributed to potential supply disruptions amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Scientists investigate thousands of dead Antarctic penguins for bird flu

Scientists investigate thousands of dead Antarctic penguins for bird flu

Researchers are investigating if bird flu has caused the deaths of hundreds, if not thousands, of penguins in Antarctica. The H5N1 virus is suspected to be the cause, but field tests were inconclusive. Samples are being sent to labs for further analysis. The disease has spread rapidly in wildlife since arriving in South America in 2022 and has now reached Antarctica. Penguins, including threatened species like Adelie and emperor penguins, are at risk of being impacted by the virus.

Lidl Cyprus: Practices with a positive impact on people and society

Lidl Cyprus: Practices with a positive impact on people and society

Lidl Cyprus aims to consistently leave a positive imprint on the country by focusing on Corporate Social Responsibility.

US rejected Turkish demands to ‘kill’ Cyprus humanitarian corridor to Gaza

US rejected Turkish demands to ‘kill’ Cyprus humanitarian corridor to Gaza

Ankara has been trying to derail the ‘Amaltheia’ plan by seeking to sabotage any planning involving the Republic of Cyprus, with Turkish officials making arguments against the Cyprus maritime corridor. However, Washington has supported the Cypriot initiative and ignored Ankara’s attempts to persuade Arab governments that Cyprus is involved in transferring weapons to Israel. Turkey has also resorted to providing its own humanitarian assistance to Gaza in an attempt to block the maritime corridor. Despite this, ‘Amaltheia’ has received international support. Washington is attempting a rapprochement with Ankara, with Turkish President Tayip Erdogan scheduled to visit the States on May 9th. Cyprus has proven to be a trustworthy and reliable asset in the region.