consultations

Our View: There can be no consultation on civil service sick leave

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Our View: There can be no consultation on civil service sick leave

The government of Cyprus is proposing new regulations to standardize sick leave in the public sector, reducing annual sick leave from 42 to 28 days and sick days without a doctor’s certificate from 8 to 6. Unions are opposing these changes and calling for broader consultations, which the government believes will prevent the regulations from being updated or standardized. The government argues that the abuses of sick leave entitlement are costly to the taxpayer and should be addressed through imposition of regulations rather than prolonged dialogue with unions.

State pension fund reaching critical levels

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State pension fund reaching critical levels

The Fiscal Council has warned that state borrowing from the Social Insurance Fund has reached critical levels, with the government owing over €10 billion to the fund. This borrowing threatens public finances and could lead to pressure on the state budget. The Council suggests reducing the state’s debt to the fund and revising the investment policy to achieve higher returns. The study also recommends increasing the percentage of assets invested in non-government securities to diversify the portfolio.

Needle residency programme hosts six emerging artists

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Needle residency programme hosts six emerging artists

Larnaca 2030 has launched the “Needle” artistic residency program for six emerging artists to create new works inspired by the city’s cultural heritage.

No change in policy on Cyprus issue, Tatar says

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No change in policy on Cyprus issue, Tatar says

Ersin Tatar, the Turkish Cypriot leader, stated that negotiations will not begin without acceptance of sovereign equality and equal international status. He emphasized that talks will not start from where they left off in Crans Montana and clarified that reports of proposals from the UN Secretary-General do not correspond to reality. Tatar also mentioned consultations with Turkey and reiterated the need to lift isolation and embargoes imposed on Turkish Cypriots. He expressed opposition to resolution 186 of 1964 and emphasized the support of Turkey in their policy.

Environmental action: you can make a real difference

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Environmental action: you can make a real difference

Fact: Supporting environmental organizations can enable them to have a more influential presence during their participation in decision-making bodies and committees.

Tatar says will not be forced to accept UNSG proposals

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Tatar says will not be forced to accept UNSG proposals

Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar rubbished reports that he will be forced to accept UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres’ proposals during their upcoming meeting in New York. Reports in Greek Cypriot media suggesting that he will have to accept proposals made to President Nikos Christodoulides are mere speculation and not based on reality.

Ideology should not determine choice of leader

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Ideology should not determine choice of leader

The European People’s Party (EPP) nominated Ursula von der Leyen for another term as European Commission President at their congress in Bucharest. Mario Draghi, former Italian Prime Minister and President of the European Central Bank, is considered the favorite for the position of Commission President based on his leadership during the world economic crisis and transformation of Italy.

President urges swift progress on tax reform

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President urges swift progress on tax reform

President Nikos Christodoulides met with the advisory committee on tax reform and asked for progress to be accelerated in order to reap benefits at the earliest opportunity. The tax reform aims to encourage entrepreneurship, relieve households, have a strong social character, and contribute to the fair distribution of income. The reform also aims to address tax evasion and avoidance and be fiscally neutral. The University of Cyprus has been asked to intensify the pace of work on the tax reform. The green transition and green taxation are part of the tax report, with compensatory measures under consideration. The committee assesses proposals from various groups to form a comprehensive opinion. Tax reform is not just about tax collection but aims to improve the finances of households and businesses and keep the economy competitive.

Presidents of Cyprus and Estonia discuss deepening partnership

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Presidents of Cyprus and Estonia discuss deepening partnership

The Presidents of Cyprus and Estonia noted the similarities between their countries and agreed to deepen cooperation in areas such as investments, cybersecurity, and shipping. They expressed strong support for the reunification of Cyprus based on a bicommunal and bizonal federation. Estonia also appreciated Cyprus’s efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza and supported Cyprus as a frontline member state facing migration challenges. The two countries discussed enhancing bilateral relations in various fields, including cybersecurity, digitalization, maritime, and tourism. They also emphasized the importance of continuing solidarity towards Ukraine.

Government determined to pull plug on fuel subsidies

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Government determined to pull plug on fuel subsidies

The Cyprus government is ending an 8 cent subsidy on fuels after it expires on March 31, resulting in an initial increase of 7 to 8.3 cents a litre for motor petrol and diesel, along with a 6.3c hike on heating oil. The government also plans to introduce a green tax on fuel, which has been delayed until after the summer holidays. The impact of the green taxation on businesses and households is expected to be small, with compensatory measures provided to vulnerable population groups.