Disparity in gaming commission board allowances raises concerns
Members of the board on the Gaming & Casino Supervision Commission receive special treatment, earning around €800 a month, while others on similar public bodies make €70.
WHO
Startups Can Now Apply for ReflectX Startup Programme, Unlocking Exclusive Benefits to Accelerate Their Journey
Fact: ReflectX 2024 is a startup programme designed for ambitious startups from Seed to Series-A, offering access, connections, and visibility.
Your tax refund could be delayed — possibly for years: What to do if it happens to you
The text discusses how some Americans who qualify for a tax refund from the IRS may experience delays in receiving their payment, possibly waiting for years.
Markets remain volatile, despite relief rally
The text discusses a small market relief rally following Iran’s missile and drone strike on Israel, with US stock futures rising and gold and oil prices slightly lower. The CEO of deVere Group warns investors not to be complacent, as the situation in the Middle East remains volatile and any disruption in oil production could have significant implications for energy prices worldwide. The ripple effects on financial markets could impact investor sentiment, corporate profits, consumer spending, inflation, and central bank monetary policy. Investors are advised to seek refuge in sectors less sensitive to geopolitical risks and to conduct thorough research, diversify portfolios, and consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
Ministry official confirms well-being of Cypriot patients in Israel
Three subsidised patients from the Ministry of Health being treated in Israeli hospitals are in good health, according to General Director Christina Giannaki. The Ministry will stay in touch with the patients and be ready to handle any problems. Three patients are at Sheba Medical Center, while a fourth patient returned to Cyprus. Giannaki personally spoke with Sheba Hospital and is updated on the patients’ health. All patients want to stay in Israel for further treatment.
Toula Liasi: Synchronising History
The Larnaka Municipal Art Gallery will host the exhibition “Synchronising History” by Toula Liasi, featuring over 55 artworks including paintings, photographs, videos, and installations. Toula Liasi’s project focuses on the history and objects of her home in the occupied village of Ayia Triada, aiming to transform historical objects into artistic evidence of memory and identity. Toula Liasi, born in Ayia Triada, has presented her work in various exhibitions, with a focus on the recent history of Cyprus. Her previous projects have dealt with issues such as the enclaved Cypriots and missing persons. The exhibition will run from April 26 to July 31, 2024, at the Larnaka Municipal Art Gallery.
England’s highest wicket-taking spinner Underwood dies at 78
Derek Underwood, former England bowler, has passed away at the age of 78. He played 86 test matches for England and took 297 wickets, making him the country’s highest wicket-taking spinner in the format. Underwood was ranked as the world’s number one bowler for nearly four years between 1969 and 1973. He played for Kent County Cricket Club for 24 years, retiring in 1987, and had 10 seasons where he took 100 or more wickets. Underwood was also inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame and served as the president of Kent Cricket and the Marylebone Cricket Club after retiring as a player.
Iraq to vote on bill including death penalty for same-sex acts
Iraqi lawmakers are considering a bill that would introduce harsh punishments for same-sex relations, including the death penalty or life in prison. This has raised concerns among rights groups and Western diplomats who fear it would harm Iraq’s political and economic relationships. The bill also prohibits the promotion of homosexuality and imposes severe penalties for violations. Diplomats have lobbied against the bill, warning that its passage could have catastrophic consequences for international relations with Iraq.
Suspension of Syrian asylum examinations already in force
The Republic of Cyprus has decided to suspend the examination of asylum applications from Syrian nationals. This decision is based on a European mechanism activated in cases of increased migratory flows. There are currently 10,000 pending applications, and the suspension will remain in effect until specific regions of Syria are designated as safe. The government intends to exhaust all available time frames before resuming the examination of applications. The return of Syrian migrants who do not receive asylum is challenging due to the situation in Syria. There is no legal basis for excluding a specific nationality from asylum applications, according to the Cyprus Refugee Council coordinator.
Trump faces criminal trial, a historic first for a former US president
Donald Trump is the first former U.S. president to stand trial in Manhattan court on charges related to a hush-money payment to a porn star. The trial is expected to last through May, with 12 jurors and six alternates selected from Manhattan residents. Trump pleaded not guilty to falsifying records to cover up the payment. If convicted, he could still hold office, but a guilty verdict may impact his prospects in the 2024 White House race. The case is seen as the least consequential of the four criminal prosecutions he faces, but it is the only one guaranteed to go to trial before the November election. The payment to the porn star was part of a “catch and kill” scheme to suppress negative information about Trump before the 2016 election.