Benefits system for disabled to be overhauled
The government of Cyprus has committed to reforming the benefits system for disabled individuals by separating it from the Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI) system. Deputy Welfare Minister Marilena Evangelou emphasized the government’s determination to create specific legislation for disabled benefits, which would address social inclusion, rehabilitation, and services. This decision came after discussions with the Confederation Organisation of the Disabled and plans for further consultations with other organizations. The current integration of disability benefits into the GMI, initiated in 2014, has reportedly resulted in a 40% reduction in benefits for disabled persons. The Confederation’s head, Christakis Nicolaides, has advocated for an increase in state funds for the disabled by €60 million to avoid Cyprus lagging behind in the EU. There is also a call for quicker legislative action from parliament, and suggestions to include benefits for individuals with psychic disorders, such as ADHD, in the new policy. The House labour committee, chaired by Akel MP Andreas Kafkalias, plans to monitor progress on this issue bi-monthly.