road

Illegal work , ‘a problem for all’

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Illegal work , ‘a problem for all’

Illegal and undeclared work in Cyprus is a growing trend, particularly in the construction industry, where it is approaching 25%. The Cyprus economy relies on employing people other than Cypriots, but this needs to be done with appropriate regulations. Third country personnel are attracted through illegal procedures in the promise of a job. The construction sector contributes about 15% to the island’s GDP, with optimistic forecasts for 2024. There are currently 40 projects underway in the construction sector worth €862 million.

Lack of plan a , ‘danger to Akamas’

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Lack of plan a , ‘danger to Akamas’

The lack of political will for a substantial revision of the sustainable development plan for the Akamas is putting the region in danger, according to the Federation of Environmental Organisations (Opok). They are not satisfied with the government’s intentions and are calling for a correction of mistakes made to avoid unfavorable results for the environment, communities, visitors, and nature lovers. Opok also calls for a ban on hunting in the park and the encouragement of sustainable development in surrounding communities.

Trump booed and heckled by raucous crowd at Libertarian convention

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Trump booed and heckled by raucous crowd at Libertarian convention

Donald Trump was booed and heckled at the Libertarian National Convention for his handling of the COVID-19 vaccine and public health restrictions. He tried to appeal to libertarians by denouncing Joe Biden and asking for their support in the upcoming election. Trump also promised to commute the sentence of Ross Ulbricht if he wins the election.

Our View: Investigate costly project disputes inherited by government

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Our View: Investigate costly project disputes inherited by government

The government is currently dealing with disputes with big project contractors, including the potential termination of contracts for the Larnaca port/marina and Vassilikos gas terminal projects. These disputes have arisen due to major disagreements over costs, with some projects heading for costly legal battles. The government has also faced challenges with road construction projects, with disagreements over costs and delays. The government has inherited these issues from the previous administration and may be facing significant financial consequences as a result.

Three bodies retrieved from Papua New Guinea landslide, UN says

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Three bodies retrieved from Papua New Guinea landslide, UN says

Three bodies were found in the aftermath of a massive landslide in Papua New Guinea, with the death toll expected to rise. Over 300 people were buried in the landslide, impacting multiple villages. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing in the mountainous area, with many still missing. The terrain remains unstable, posing a risk for more homes if the landslide continues.

California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

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California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

States, like California, are exploring alternative ways to recoup lost gas tax revenue by piloting a “road charge” program that charges drivers based on the number of miles they drive rather than how much gas they purchase. The program is optional and participants can earn up to 0 in incentives for providing feedback on their experience. The state is considering this alternative revenue source due to the decrease in gas tax revenue collection and the shift towards electric vehicles. The program includes security protocols to protect personal information, and no action or changes are currently being proposed.

Our View: President acting as deus ex machina needs to end

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Our View: President acting as deus ex machina needs to end

Presidents of the Republic have historically acted as mediators in disputes, trying to find compromises and solutions. However, recent instances where the president intervened in disputes involving big companies from abroad, such as Kition Ocean Holdings and Chevron, did not yield positive results. This has raised questions about the president’s role in such matters and whether ministers should be left to handle them instead.

Limassol to grant permit for tallest building in Cyprus “Aura”

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Limassol to grant permit for tallest building in Cyprus “Aura”

Limassol Municipality is expected to issue a building permit by the end of May for the Aura project, which will become Cyprus’s tallest building at 181.5 metres with 44 floors. The skyscraper will be constructed on the former site of the ERA Olympia shopping centre. Investors are finalizing agreements to comply with compensatory measures set by the Municipality, including providing public parking spaces, allocating ground floor space for a municipal art gallery, and making a compensation payment. The project, designed by Foster+Partners, aims to create a modern, environmentally friendly tower that integrates seamlessly with Limassol’s urban environment.