Holiday subsidy scheme launched

Holiday subsidy scheme launched

The Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance has launched a “Holiday Subsidy Scheme for Low-Income Pensioners in mountain region resorts and Pyrgos Tyllirias.” The plan offers fully subsidized accommodation with full board for low-income pensioners at selected resorts during specific dates. Eligible beneficiaries include recipients of the Low-Income Pensioners Support Scheme, Minimum Guaranteed Income recipients, and pensioners with specific income thresholds. Applications can be submitted starting June 3, 2024, until funds are exhausted.

Government approves subsidised holidays for pensioners and employees

Government approves subsidised holidays for pensioners and employees

The Council of Ministers approved two subsidised holiday schemes to boost domestic tourism and support low-income residents. The Low-Income Pensioners’ Holiday Subsidy Scheme offers free four-day stays in mountain resorts and Pyrgos Tillyrias for eligible individuals. The Employed Persons’ Leave Subsidy Scheme provides fully subsidised six-day stays for employed persons who received leave benefits in 2023. Labor Minister Yiannis Panagiotou stated that the aim of the schemes is to provide quality services to low-income residents and employees, while supporting mountain resorts and off-season tourism. Application procedures will be announced by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance.

Government prepares subsidies for elderly care

Government prepares subsidies for elderly care

The government is preparing subsidies for elderly people who require long-term care in nursing homes but face financial constraints.

Health minister discusses key Gesy issues with medical association

Health minister discusses key Gesy issues with medical association

Health Minister Michael Damianos met with a delegation from the Pancyprian Medical Association to discuss key healthcare issues, including the need for comprehensive planning for the national health scheme Gesy, addressing the strengthening of the legislative framework, tackling abuses, covering non-prescription drugs for low-income pensioners, improving public hospitals, and regulating working conditions for employees of the Cyprus Oncology Centre.

Government introduces , €35 mln support package

Government introduces , €35 mln support package

The government announced a €35 million package, including an extension to the electricity subsidy until the end of June, aimed at easing the burden of the cost-of-living crisis on Cypriot households.

Our View: , ‘Human-centred’ measures merely a distraction from bad news

Our View: , ‘Human-centred’ measures merely a distraction from bad news

The fact described in the text is that the government of Christodoulides in Cyprus introduced offsetting measures to counter the increase in the price of fuel, including extending the electricity bill subsidy and zero VAT on basic household items.

Electricity subsidy extended until end of June

Electricity subsidy extended until end of June

The electricity subsidy is being extended until the end of June and will cover more than 400,000 households and 100,000 businesses.

Service dogs may be exempt from dog licence fee

Service dogs may be exempt from dog licence fee

Service dogs and dogs owned by low-income pensioners and welfare recipients may soon be exempt from the dog licence fee, following the progression of a bill through the House environment committee. The bill amends Article 4 of the law on dogs, which currently requires an annual fee of up to €20 for dog licensing. Akel MP Nikos Kettiros stated that the exemption aims to support those in need without causing significant financial issues for public finances or local authorities. The exemption is intended for one animal per residence and could encourage adoptions from animal shelters. Despite some opposition from the Municipalities’ union, government agencies, and the Legal Service, proponents of the bill argue it will have numerous non-financial benefits. Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides highlighted concerns regarding the number of animals per household and called for a unified nationwide policy on the matter.