regulations

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.

Cyprus takes steps to reduce plastic use, says agriculture ministry

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Cyprus takes steps to reduce plastic use, says agriculture ministry

Fact: Since 2018, Cyprus has implemented a ban on the free distribution of thin plastic carrier bags and the obligation to charge for them at points of sale, resulting in an 80-85 percent reduction in annual consumption compared to 2017.

The $5 trillion AI boom could both succeed and fizzle

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The $5 trillion AI boom could both succeed and fizzle

Investors are pouring billions of dollars into AI companies, with the market capitalization of major tech giants increasing significantly since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022. However, the income generated by AI remains relatively small compared to the investments being made. The promise of future riches has led to forecasts of up to trillion needed for advanced semiconductors, data centers, and power to train and run AI models. Similar investment booms have occurred in the past with industries like railways and telecom, but they often resulted in financial disappointment for investors. The AI boom also comes with risks such as the short lifespan of AI models, potential commoditization of advances, and government regulations that could limit profits.

EU issues warning to Cyprus over 15 per cent tax rate for multinationals

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EU issues warning to Cyprus over 15 per cent tax rate for multinationals

The European Commission issued reasoned opinions to Cyprus and other member states for failing to implement a minimum 15 per cent tax rate on large multinational corporations.

Defence minister hails new elite frogmen graduates

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Defence minister hails new elite frogmen graduates

Fact: Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas addressed the graduation ceremony for the new frogmen of the National Guard at the ‘Evangelos Florakis’ naval base, acknowledging the rigorous requirements and skills needed to join and complete the training for the special unit.

Akel speaks out against quarry expansion

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Akel speaks out against quarry expansion

Akel strongly opposes the government’s decision to proceed with a tender for an environmental impact assessment and ecological study for a potential new quarry zone in the area of Androlikou, near Polis Chrysochous.

Motorsport athletes protest

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Motorsport athletes protest

Motorsport athletes demonstrated outside the Cyprus Sports Organisation due to disinterest by the latter and the state to find solutions to the issues they face. The athletes have been suffering under the pressure of a private company that has been blackmailing and punishing them for participating in “illegal and unauthorised races.” This company shows complete disrespect to the laws and regulations of the Republic of Cyprus.

Our View: There is no nursing shortage in public hospitals

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Our View: There is no nursing shortage in public hospitals

Unions representing public hospital nurses demanded the hiring of another 170 nurses due to staff shortages. Public hospitals are always short-staffed, with significant shortages caused by retirements, transfers, and staff on leave. Private hospitals have more flexible working conditions and can service the same number of beds with a third of the nurses. The health ministry and Okypy should focus on making better use of hospital staff rather than hiring more nurses. Some nurses are seconded to other parts of the public sector and not performing nursing duties, contributing to the staffing shortage.

EU digital policy in focus at ministerial meeting in Brussels

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EU digital policy in focus at ministerial meeting in Brussels

Deputy Minister of Research Nicodemos Damianou is scheduled to travel to Brussels to attend an EU telecommunications ministers meeting. The summit will focus on shaping the European digital landscape, including measures to strengthen the Digital Single Market, regulations such as the Digital Services Act, Artificial Intelligence Act, and Cyber Resilience Act, as well as establishing a Framework for a European Digital Identity. Discussions will also cover cybersecurity, digital skills enhancement, and the need for coordinated efforts among national authorities for digital transformation. A policy debate on the implementation of digital legislation will take place, and conclusions on the future of the EU’s digital policy and cybersecurity strategies are expected to be approved. Damianou will also participate in a Competitiveness Council meeting to discuss the potential creation of a European space law to establish common standards for safety, resilience, and sustainability in space activities. He is expected to return to Cyprus on the evening of Thursday, May 23.

Election debates fail to spark interest

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Election debates fail to spark interest

– Cyprus voters will be handed six ballot papers to choose mayors, deputy mayors, municipal councillors, village leaders, council members, district council presidents, and members of the European Parliament.
– The number of mayors has been reduced and the number of deputy mayors has been tripled due to a municipal reform.
– Some new municipalities will have a greater population, while others will be the biggest in area.
– Some municipalities and village councils refused to merge due to personal egos.
– There is frustration among voters about the new roles created and candidates not knowing their duties.
– Local issues are not being discussed, and there is a lack of female participation in MEP and mayoral candidates.
– The turnout on election day could be smaller than ever due to growing apathy.