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Larnaca port workers anxious after marina project collapse

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Larnaca port workers anxious after marina project collapse

The government terminated its contract with Kition Ocean Holdings, causing concern among employees about their future. Trade unions met with the Minister of Labour to ensure workers’ continued employment would be prioritized. The government plans to follow labor laws in handling the situation. The Municipality of Larnaca expressed solidarity with the employees, while PEO opposes the privatization of Larnaca Port and demands protection for Kition workers. The General Secretary of OMEPEGIE-SEK stated that the Minister of Labour assured them that the workers would be employed under a new regime to prevent victimization.

Husic’s Corporate Tax Cut Calls

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Husic's Corporate Tax Cut Calls

The Greens criticize Cabinet Minister Ed Husic’s call to lower the corporate tax rate, stating that it is out of touch with the struggles of Australians. They argue that one in three of Australia’s biggest corporations pay no tax and should be the focus instead. The Greens advocate for a tax system where big corporations pay their fair share to fund essential public services and suggest introducing a super profits tax. They believe that lowering corporate taxes would sabotage climate efforts and reward polluting industries.

Cypriot donkeys , ‘used as proxies’ to kill stray dogs in Turkey

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Cypriot donkeys , ‘used as proxies’ to kill stray dogs in Turkey

Cypriot donkeys are being used as proxies by news media in Turkey to encourage the idea of euthanizing stray dogs. The debate on euthanizing stray animals in Turkey has caused a divide in Cyprus. The population of wild donkeys has increased, causing damage to property and crops. However, neither local leaders called for the euthanization of donkeys. Donkeys are of great economic benefit to the Karpasia region and measures are being taken to control their population. A “Karpasia donkeys management plan cooperation protocol” was signed to better manage the free roaming donkeys in the region.

Trump’s new ‘deal’ could save Big Oil $110 billion in taxes

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Trump's new ‘deal’ could save Big Oil $110 billion in taxes

Donald Trump allegedly offered Big Oil executives 0 billion in tax breaks if they donated billion to his campaign. Congressional Democrats are investigating this potential quid pro quo deal. Joe Biden plans to eliminate these tax breaks for the oil and gas industry if elected. The fossil fuel industry is lobbying to maintain these tax breaks, which are set to expire next year. Some attendees at Trump’s fundraising dinner at Mar-a-Lago included executives of smaller oil companies focused on fracking and gas exporting. The event was also attended by individuals with controversial backgrounds in the oil and gas industry.

In Cyprus 50 years ago, in Israel 7 months ago

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In Cyprus 50 years ago, in Israel 7 months ago

The Palestinian President made a translation error in an official statement that referred to the “Greek Administration of Southern Cyprus,” causing mild reactions in Cyprus. Some people point out that Cyprus recognized the State of Palestine in 1988, unlike Spain, Ireland, and Norway, which recently did so. The focus should be on the form of the state, as Hamas, a terrorist organization, is in control of Gaza and aims to prevent Israel from having a state.

EAC pondering price hikes for 2025

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EAC pondering price hikes for 2025

The Electricity Authority of Cyprus is examining tariff hikes for 2025 and plans to present their proposal to the energy regulator by July. The organization has cash reserves of over €280 million and plans to upgrade the Dhekelia power station at a cost of €110 million.

Europe sets benchmark for rest of the world with landmark AI laws

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Europe sets benchmark for rest of the world with landmark AI laws

Europe’s landmark rules on artificial intelligence will enter into force next month after EU countries endorsed a political deal reached in December, setting a potential global benchmark for the technology. The AI Act is more comprehensive than the United States’ approach and China’s approach, aiming to maintain social stability and state control. The legislation imposes strict transparency obligations on high-risk AI systems and restricts governments’ use of real-time biometric surveillance in public spaces. The new legislation will have a global reach, impacting companies outside the EU who use EU customer data in their AI platforms. Fines for violations range from 7.5 million euros to 35 million euros depending on the type of violations.

More aid trucks expected to roll into Gaza

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More aid trucks expected to roll into Gaza

Israel allowed around 200 aid trucks into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, bypassing the blocked Rafah crossing. The aid shipments were agreed upon between U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Israel is facing pressure to provide more aid to Gaza after months of conflict causing destruction and hunger. The Rafah crossing has been closed for almost three weeks, with Egypt refusing to open its side. Israel has opened new crossing points and is cooperating with the United States to distribute supplies. Israeli strikes in Rafah have killed at least five Palestinians, with ongoing operations to root out Hamas fighters and rescue hostages. Efforts to agree on a ceasefire and return hostages have been ongoing, with some movement after meetings between Israeli and U.S. intelligence officials and the prime minister of Qatar. Hamas demands the complete and permanent end of aggression in all of Gaza, not just Rafah. Israel insists the war will not end until Hamas is eliminated.

Motor racing-Monaco Grand Prix re-starts after opening lap crash

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Motor racing-Monaco Grand Prix re-starts after opening lap crash

The Monaco Grand Prix had a chaotic start with a big crash involving Sergio Perez, Kevin Magnussen, and Nico Hulkenberg. The Haas cars were excluded from qualifying due to a rear wing breach. Despite the incident, no further action was taken by stewards. Charles Leclerc led the race from pole position, aiming to become the first Monegasque to win the home grand prix since 1931.

LNG import blues

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LNG import blues

The LNG import project at Vasilikos in Cyprus has faced recurring problems and delays. The project, which aims to switch power generation from oil to natural gas, could reduce electricity prices by one-third, resulting in annual cost savings close to €300-€400 million. The project has faced issues due to a badly conducted tender, unclear terms of reference, and a contractor with no experience in such projects. The current contractor, CPP, has claimed additional costs and the project is not progressing as expected. The government is considering various options to complete the project, including finding a way to move forward with the present contractor, seeking independent expert advice, and exploring alternative plans if necessary.