Channels / 🇨🇾 CYPRUS NEWS 🇬🇧
🇨🇾 CYPRUS NEWS 🇬🇧
@cyprus_news_eng · channel
🦁** "The animals are not to blame": protest at Melios Zoo — activists demand not to close the park, but to save the animals
**On Wednesday evening, a protest took place at the Melios Zoo in Ayia Trimithias (a suburb of Nicosia). Citizens demonstrated against the Supreme Court's final decision to close the park. Their slogan: "The animals are not to blame."
📜 What happened:
The court rejected an appeal by owner Menelaos Menelaou, and the zoo is to be closed. But protesters are demanding not to lock the gates, but to find a solution. They collected dozens of signatures and sent a memorandum to President Nikos Christodoulides, asking him to intervene.
🗣️ What participants are saying:
— Nicholas Kretitis (Active Citizens): "It's absurd to close the park without thinking about the animals. The state fought with Mr. Menelaou for years, and the animals became hostages. We will not remain silent."
— Menelaos Menelaou (owner): "For 26 years I worked legally. All my animals are legal, except for three eagles that the state gave me. They are thriving — the veterinary clinic will confirm that. This is a war due to personal interests of officials. Some of them were convicted but remained unpunished and even got promotions. I have documents, not just words."
— Maria Theodosiadou (Green Party): "It's absurd to close a zoo without having a plan for the animals. Many of them will not survive in the wild. You cannot just release them."
🦓 The problem:
More than 400 animals are at risk, including large predators. The Green Party had previously criticized the court's decision, calling it a "systemic failure": the state knew about the problems for years, but there was no ready plan to save the animals.
🔒 What now:
The owner stated that his farm continues to operate normally while possible. Protesters are demanding that the president find a way to overturn the court's decision or at least ensure the humane relocation of the animals. "The animals are not to blame" has become the main slogan. The question is: who will save the animals if officials and courts are only concerned with "locks"?**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**On Wednesday evening, a protest took place at the Melios Zoo in Ayia Trimithias (a suburb of Nicosia). Citizens demonstrated against the Supreme Court's final decision to close the park. Their slogan: "The animals are not to blame."
📜 What happened:
The court rejected an appeal by owner Menelaos Menelaou, and the zoo is to be closed. But protesters are demanding not to lock the gates, but to find a solution. They collected dozens of signatures and sent a memorandum to President Nikos Christodoulides, asking him to intervene.
🗣️ What participants are saying:
— Nicholas Kretitis (Active Citizens): "It's absurd to close the park without thinking about the animals. The state fought with Mr. Menelaou for years, and the animals became hostages. We will not remain silent."
— Menelaos Menelaou (owner): "For 26 years I worked legally. All my animals are legal, except for three eagles that the state gave me. They are thriving — the veterinary clinic will confirm that. This is a war due to personal interests of officials. Some of them were convicted but remained unpunished and even got promotions. I have documents, not just words."
— Maria Theodosiadou (Green Party): "It's absurd to close a zoo without having a plan for the animals. Many of them will not survive in the wild. You cannot just release them."
🦓 The problem:
More than 400 animals are at risk, including large predators. The Green Party had previously criticized the court's decision, calling it a "systemic failure": the state knew about the problems for years, but there was no ready plan to save the animals.
🔒 What now:
The owner stated that his farm continues to operate normally while possible. Protesters are demanding that the president find a way to overturn the court's decision or at least ensure the humane relocation of the animals. "The animals are not to blame" has become the main slogan. The question is: who will save the animals if officials and courts are only concerned with "locks"?**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**🏔️ Police presence to be strengthened in the mountain communities of Pedoulas and North Marathasa
**Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris met with representatives of the communities of Pedoulas and the North Marathasa region. The main topic was security in mountain areas.
👮♂️ What was discussed:
— Strengthening the police station in Pedoulas and surrounding communities
— The specific challenges of mountainous terrain and the need to enhance state presence
— Ensuring that citizens feel safe in their villages, without exception
🔥 The issue of establishing a fire station in Pedoulas was also raised. The project has been under consideration for several years. It is directly linked to protecting lives, property, and the natural environment of the region.
🗣️ Minister's statement:
"Strengthening security in every corner of Cyprus is a steady priority of the government. The state commits to delivering meaningful solutions to issues that have remained pending for a long time. The topics raised will be assessed with the aim of making decisions that meet the real needs of local communities."
Context: Pedoulas and North Marathasa are mountain villages in the Troodos region, popular with tourists but with limited infrastructure. Strengthening police presence and establishing a fire station are long-standing needs. It seems that after tragedies in other regions, authorities have finally turned their attention to mountain communities as well. We will see whether words translate into action.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris met with representatives of the communities of Pedoulas and the North Marathasa region. The main topic was security in mountain areas.
👮♂️ What was discussed:
— Strengthening the police station in Pedoulas and surrounding communities
— The specific challenges of mountainous terrain and the need to enhance state presence
— Ensuring that citizens feel safe in their villages, without exception
🔥 The issue of establishing a fire station in Pedoulas was also raised. The project has been under consideration for several years. It is directly linked to protecting lives, property, and the natural environment of the region.
🗣️ Minister's statement:
"Strengthening security in every corner of Cyprus is a steady priority of the government. The state commits to delivering meaningful solutions to issues that have remained pending for a long time. The topics raised will be assessed with the aim of making decisions that meet the real needs of local communities."
Context: Pedoulas and North Marathasa are mountain villages in the Troodos region, popular with tourists but with limited infrastructure. Strengthening police presence and establishing a fire station are long-standing needs. It seems that after tragedies in other regions, authorities have finally turned their attention to mountain communities as well. We will see whether words translate into action.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
📄 Document (not supported)
🇨🇾📸**Drone use temporarily banned in Cyprus — but there is a way around it
**Authorities in Cyprus have introduced restrictions on the use of drones. During the current period, launching drones is prohibited, and violations may result in fines.
⚠️ However, this does not mean that stunning aerial shots are no longer possible.
📷 As specialists note, you can achieve a high-angle effect even without a drone — using the right angles, locations, and shooting techniques.**
**🌺Cyprus remains one of the most photogenic places in the Mediterranean, and even without drones, you can still create impressive visual content here.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Authorities in Cyprus have introduced restrictions on the use of drones. During the current period, launching drones is prohibited, and violations may result in fines.
⚠️ However, this does not mean that stunning aerial shots are no longer possible.
📷 As specialists note, you can achieve a high-angle effect even without a drone — using the right angles, locations, and shooting techniques.**
**🌺Cyprus remains one of the most photogenic places in the Mediterranean, and even without drones, you can still create impressive visual content here.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
📄 Document (not supported)
💃🇨🇾**Atmospheric dancing spotted on Larnaca seafront right by the water
**A couple of days ago in Larnaca, passersby witnessed a beautiful and unexpected sight — people were dancing impromptu right on the seafront.
🌊 With the sea as a backdrop
📸 Moments like these remind us why Cyprus is so loved: the lively atmosphere, freedom, and raw emotion right out on the city streets.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**A couple of days ago in Larnaca, passersby witnessed a beautiful and unexpected sight — people were dancing impromptu right on the seafront.
🌊 With the sea as a backdrop
📸 Moments like these remind us why Cyprus is so loved: the lively atmosphere, freedom, and raw emotion right out on the city streets.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
💰 €190 million from the EU for migration: Cyprus to receive funds after passing the law on April 23
The European Union is allocating €190 million to Cyprus for migration management. The funds will be released after parliament passes the harmonization law on refugee protection on April 23 — the last session before parliament is dissolved.
📜 What the law provides:
— Implements the new European Pact on Immigration and Asylum (enters into force on June 12)
— Tightens border controls
— Speeds up asylum procedures
— Increases the number of deportations
💰 Funding:
— Over 60% of migration-related expenses will be co-financed by the EU
— Modernization and construction of reception centers will be 90–100% covered by the EU
— Cyprus will receive a solidarity mechanism: relocation of refugees to other EU countries, financial support, and technical assistance
👧 Regarding minors:
Detained foreign children will be held in special facilities, separate from adults. Those convicted of criminal offenses will be held in separate premises.
🗣️ Deputy Minister of Migration Nikolaos Ioannides:
"This is a critically important moment. The new pact will help the EU respond effectively and not be caught off guard, as it was 10 years ago. It will prevent mass influxes and speed up procedures."
⚖️ Parliamentary position:
Interior Committee chair Eroto Damianou emphasized that EU countries have no right to deviate — they are obliged to implement the pact. DIKO party member George Pendenets added that member states must move toward national-level implementation.
👉Cyprus is on the front line of migration routes. €190 million is significant aid. If parliament manages to vote before the elections, the migration management system will receive a powerful boost. If not, the funds will be stalled. Time is running out.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
The European Union is allocating €190 million to Cyprus for migration management. The funds will be released after parliament passes the harmonization law on refugee protection on April 23 — the last session before parliament is dissolved.
📜 What the law provides:
— Implements the new European Pact on Immigration and Asylum (enters into force on June 12)
— Tightens border controls
— Speeds up asylum procedures
— Increases the number of deportations
💰 Funding:
— Over 60% of migration-related expenses will be co-financed by the EU
— Modernization and construction of reception centers will be 90–100% covered by the EU
— Cyprus will receive a solidarity mechanism: relocation of refugees to other EU countries, financial support, and technical assistance
👧 Regarding minors:
Detained foreign children will be held in special facilities, separate from adults. Those convicted of criminal offenses will be held in separate premises.
🗣️ Deputy Minister of Migration Nikolaos Ioannides:
"This is a critically important moment. The new pact will help the EU respond effectively and not be caught off guard, as it was 10 years ago. It will prevent mass influxes and speed up procedures."
⚖️ Parliamentary position:
Interior Committee chair Eroto Damianou emphasized that EU countries have no right to deviate — they are obliged to implement the pact. DIKO party member George Pendenets added that member states must move toward national-level implementation.
👉Cyprus is on the front line of migration routes. €190 million is significant aid. If parliament manages to vote before the elections, the migration management system will receive a powerful boost. If not, the funds will be stalled. Time is running out.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
📱**Cyprus introduces age limit for social media — 15 years old. Can parents breathe easier?
**President Nikos Christodoulides has announced that the minimum age for registering on social media in Cyprus will be 15. The goal is to protect children and strengthen the family.
🔒 How it will work:
— Within a year, a European technical solution for age verification will be integrated into the "Digital Citizen" app
— Platforms will be required to verify users' ages
— Non-compliance will result in fines
📜 The bill:
It regulates the obligation to verify age, sanctions for non-compliance, and transitional provisions. Details have not yet been disclosed.
🗣️ President's statement:
"Protecting children in the digital environment is a priority for our administration. Cyprus is among the EU countries implementing this solution among the first."**
📌This is part of a Europe-wide trend. Greece has already passed a similar law (ban for children under 15 from January 2027), and France is advancing its own restriction. The EU is developing a unified "mini-wallet" for age verification. Cyprus is keeping pace. But the main question remains — how exactly will age be verified? And will children lose access to useful content? There is no clarity yet. But parents can already feel some relief.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**President Nikos Christodoulides has announced that the minimum age for registering on social media in Cyprus will be 15. The goal is to protect children and strengthen the family.
🔒 How it will work:
— Within a year, a European technical solution for age verification will be integrated into the "Digital Citizen" app
— Platforms will be required to verify users' ages
— Non-compliance will result in fines
📜 The bill:
It regulates the obligation to verify age, sanctions for non-compliance, and transitional provisions. Details have not yet been disclosed.
🗣️ President's statement:
"Protecting children in the digital environment is a priority for our administration. Cyprus is among the EU countries implementing this solution among the first."**
📌This is part of a Europe-wide trend. Greece has already passed a similar law (ban for children under 15 from January 2027), and France is advancing its own restriction. The EU is developing a unified "mini-wallet" for age verification. Cyprus is keeping pace. But the main question remains — how exactly will age be verified? And will children lose access to useful content? There is no clarity yet. But parents can already feel some relief.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🏥**Greek official implicated in the "Santi" case has ruptured aneurysm — he is in intensive care
**Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister of Greece, Georgios Milonakis, lost consciousness on Wednesday morning at the Maximos Mansion. The cause is a ruptured brain aneurysm.
🩸 What happened:
He underwent emergency embolization (bleeding control). The surgery was successful, but the first 48 hours are critical. Doctors are speaking of a 10-day struggle.
📊 Prognosis:
"The first days are difficult; the risks must be overcome," said neuroradiologist Eftychios Archontakis. Milonakis is currently in intensive care, with doctors fighting for his life.**
**👉Context: Milonakis is a figure in the "Santi" case (corruption-related correspondence). He denies the allegations and has sued journalist Drousiotis. Now his life is in the hands of doctors.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister of Greece, Georgios Milonakis, lost consciousness on Wednesday morning at the Maximos Mansion. The cause is a ruptured brain aneurysm.
🩸 What happened:
He underwent emergency embolization (bleeding control). The surgery was successful, but the first 48 hours are critical. Doctors are speaking of a 10-day struggle.
📊 Prognosis:
"The first days are difficult; the risks must be overcome," said neuroradiologist Eftychios Archontakis. Milonakis is currently in intensive care, with doctors fighting for his life.**
**👉Context: Milonakis is a figure in the "Santi" case (corruption-related correspondence). He denies the allegations and has sued journalist Drousiotis. Now his life is in the hands of doctors.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🔥**Cyprus Fire Service: anonymous complaints of hiring discrimination not confirmed
**The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority has closed its investigation into anonymous complaints alleging unfair practices in Fire Service recruitment. Complainants claimed that "predetermined quotas for men and women" were used in competitions, and that there were cases of unequal treatment during physical tests.
📋 What the Authority ruled:
— Allegations of unequal treatment during tests were deemed "far-fetched, general, and abstract," lacking sufficient evidence
— On the quota issue, complainants were advised to appeal to the Administrative Court (to challenge hiring procedures) or the Industrial Disputes Court (for gender discrimination claims)
⚖️ Legal framework:
— The Administrative Court examines the legality of procedures for filling public service positions
— The Industrial Disputes Court handles cases of gender discrimination in employment**
📌Context: Anonymous complaints provided no basis for investigating corruption. The Authority closed the case due to insufficient data. If you have concrete evidence — file it non-anonymously with the appropriate bodies. Anonymous reports, by law, are not considered sufficient grounds for criminal prosecution. No evidence — no action.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority has closed its investigation into anonymous complaints alleging unfair practices in Fire Service recruitment. Complainants claimed that "predetermined quotas for men and women" were used in competitions, and that there were cases of unequal treatment during physical tests.
📋 What the Authority ruled:
— Allegations of unequal treatment during tests were deemed "far-fetched, general, and abstract," lacking sufficient evidence
— On the quota issue, complainants were advised to appeal to the Administrative Court (to challenge hiring procedures) or the Industrial Disputes Court (for gender discrimination claims)
⚖️ Legal framework:
— The Administrative Court examines the legality of procedures for filling public service positions
— The Industrial Disputes Court handles cases of gender discrimination in employment**
📌Context: Anonymous complaints provided no basis for investigating corruption. The Authority closed the case due to insufficient data. If you have concrete evidence — file it non-anonymously with the appropriate bodies. Anonymous reports, by law, are not considered sufficient grounds for criminal prosecution. No evidence — no action.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
📄 Document (not supported)
🇨🇾**Cyprus of the 1960s comes to life in archival photos
**Rare images from the past show what Cyprus was like in the 1960s — simple life, quiet streets, and everyday moments without the hustle.
🕰️This is a small glimpse into the past, preserved thanks to original photographs and the work of those who captured these moments.
📌Such images remind us how much the island has changed over the decades — while still holding onto its unique atmosphere.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Rare images from the past show what Cyprus was like in the 1960s — simple life, quiet streets, and everyday moments without the hustle.
🕰️This is a small glimpse into the past, preserved thanks to original photographs and the work of those who captured these moments.
📌Such images remind us how much the island has changed over the decades — while still holding onto its unique atmosphere.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**🏗️ ETEK launches online platform to register all dangerous buildings in Cyprus
**The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) is launching a digital registry of hazardous structures. The goal is to consolidate information about every dangerous building in one place — its status, level of risk, and necessary measures.
📋 What will be on the platform:
— Geolocation of each hazardous structure
— Danger level: whether it requires repair, partial demolition, or complete evacuation
— Categories: dangerous for residents, dangerous for passersby, requires urgent intervention
🔧 How it will work:
ETEK will develop a standardized visual inspection form so that all engineers speak the same language. The platform will be integrated with land registry data. Funding will come from the Ministry of Interior's budget.
🗣️ ETEK President Konstantinos Konstantinis:
"Today, we do not have a proper database. The platform will provide the answer: which building is dangerous and to what degree. Speed is crucial — we do not want to get bogged down in lengthy procedures."**
📌Context: Across Cyprus, there are over 1,200 dangerous buildings. The tragedy in Germasogeia showed that delay is deadly. ETEK is taking the initiative to bring order to the chaos.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) is launching a digital registry of hazardous structures. The goal is to consolidate information about every dangerous building in one place — its status, level of risk, and necessary measures.
📋 What will be on the platform:
— Geolocation of each hazardous structure
— Danger level: whether it requires repair, partial demolition, or complete evacuation
— Categories: dangerous for residents, dangerous for passersby, requires urgent intervention
🔧 How it will work:
ETEK will develop a standardized visual inspection form so that all engineers speak the same language. The platform will be integrated with land registry data. Funding will come from the Ministry of Interior's budget.
🗣️ ETEK President Konstantinos Konstantinis:
"Today, we do not have a proper database. The platform will provide the answer: which building is dangerous and to what degree. Speed is crucial — we do not want to get bogged down in lengthy procedures."**
📌Context: Across Cyprus, there are over 1,200 dangerous buildings. The tragedy in Germasogeia showed that delay is deadly. ETEK is taking the initiative to bring order to the chaos.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
💳**Cypriot payabl. launches two-click payments — online shopping in Europe gets easier
**Limassol-based fintech company payabl. has implemented Visa Click to Pay technology. Shoppers no longer need to enter their 16-digit card number every time — just link the card to the system once.
⚡️ What this offers:
— Two-click payments, reducing checkout time by 40%
— The merchant never sees the card number — it is replaced by a one-time token
— 3D Secure (SMS/app verification) continues to work
📈 Why it benefits businesses:
— 62% of shoppers abandon their cart if checkout takes longer than 2 minutes
— Sales increase by an average of 4.5%
🏢 Who are payabl.:
Operating since 2011, headquartered in Limassol. Their services are used by over 500 merchants across Europe, including Cypriot hotels, travel companies, and online schools.**
📌Context: The technology has already been rolled out by Visa and Worldpay. Now it is the turn of a Cypriot player. One click — and the product is yours. Limassol is strengthening its position as a fintech hub.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Limassol-based fintech company payabl. has implemented Visa Click to Pay technology. Shoppers no longer need to enter their 16-digit card number every time — just link the card to the system once.
⚡️ What this offers:
— Two-click payments, reducing checkout time by 40%
— The merchant never sees the card number — it is replaced by a one-time token
— 3D Secure (SMS/app verification) continues to work
📈 Why it benefits businesses:
— 62% of shoppers abandon their cart if checkout takes longer than 2 minutes
— Sales increase by an average of 4.5%
🏢 Who are payabl.:
Operating since 2011, headquartered in Limassol. Their services are used by over 500 merchants across Europe, including Cypriot hotels, travel companies, and online schools.**
📌Context: The technology has already been rolled out by Visa and Worldpay. Now it is the turn of a Cypriot player. One click — and the product is yours. Limassol is strengthening its position as a fintech hub.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🛴**Cyprus parliament tightens e-scooter rules: age 17+, speed up to 25 km/h
**Parliament has passed amendments to the legislation. Riding an e-scooter is now allowed only from age 17 (up from 14), and passengers must also be at least 17 (up from 12).
⚙️ Technical requirements:
— Mandatory CE certificate and compliance with European standard CYS EN 17128:2020
— Police and traffic inspectors may impound devices
📏 Speed and fines:
— Maximum speed — 25 km/h (up from 20)
— Out-of-court fine for speeding
— Fine for the owner if they fail to prevent a person under 17 from operating the scooter
— Fine for transporting a passenger under 17
🗣️ Context: The law was passed after a serious accident involving a 13-year-old (currently in intensive care with a head injury). Two DIKO bills (banning scooter use in public spaces and licensing rental outlets) were rejected. The rest was approved. The age was raised, speed was capped, and fines were introduced. The question is — how will enforcement work? Police promise increased patrols. For children — no; for adults — proceed with caution. The law comes into force after publication in the official gazette.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Parliament has passed amendments to the legislation. Riding an e-scooter is now allowed only from age 17 (up from 14), and passengers must also be at least 17 (up from 12).
⚙️ Technical requirements:
— Mandatory CE certificate and compliance with European standard CYS EN 17128:2020
— Police and traffic inspectors may impound devices
📏 Speed and fines:
— Maximum speed — 25 km/h (up from 20)
— Out-of-court fine for speeding
— Fine for the owner if they fail to prevent a person under 17 from operating the scooter
— Fine for transporting a passenger under 17
🗣️ Context: The law was passed after a serious accident involving a 13-year-old (currently in intensive care with a head injury). Two DIKO bills (banning scooter use in public spaces and licensing rental outlets) were rejected. The rest was approved. The age was raised, speed was capped, and fines were introduced. The question is — how will enforcement work? Police promise increased patrols. For children — no; for adults — proceed with caution. The law comes into force after publication in the official gazette.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🚕**Cyprus tightens penalties for "pirate taxis" — licenses can be suspended even on first offense
**Parliament has unanimously passed a law to combat illegal passenger transport. Sanctions will now apply even for a first violation.
⚖️ What changes:
— Suspension of driver's license (Category B)
— Suspension of vehicle registration for the car used in the violation
— Administrative fines — now without requiring a repeat offense
— Authority to detain or stop the vehicle
📋 How it works:
Sanctions remain in effect until the imposed fine is paid in full (previously there was a fixed 3-month period). The licensing authority may refer cases to criminal court.
🗣️ Bill sponsor Alekos Tryfinidis:
"The phenomenon has reached alarming proportions, striking at legal professionals and citizen safety. We cannot close our eyes."
🗣️ Context: MPs acknowledge the law does not fully solve the problem (lack of licenses, enforcement mechanisms), but voted unanimously "to send a signal." The opposition (AKEL, DISY, DIKO) supported it, though some expressed doubts about proportionality. The law takes effect after publication. Drivers operating without a license are now in the crosshairs. Police have been given tools. The question is — how quickly will they be used? Passenger safety and the interests of legal taxi drivers are now a priority.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**Parliament has unanimously passed a law to combat illegal passenger transport. Sanctions will now apply even for a first violation.
⚖️ What changes:
— Suspension of driver's license (Category B)
— Suspension of vehicle registration for the car used in the violation
— Administrative fines — now without requiring a repeat offense
— Authority to detain or stop the vehicle
📋 How it works:
Sanctions remain in effect until the imposed fine is paid in full (previously there was a fixed 3-month period). The licensing authority may refer cases to criminal court.
🗣️ Bill sponsor Alekos Tryfinidis:
"The phenomenon has reached alarming proportions, striking at legal professionals and citizen safety. We cannot close our eyes."
🗣️ Context: MPs acknowledge the law does not fully solve the problem (lack of licenses, enforcement mechanisms), but voted unanimously "to send a signal." The opposition (AKEL, DISY, DIKO) supported it, though some expressed doubts about proportionality. The law takes effect after publication. Drivers operating without a license are now in the crosshairs. Police have been given tools. The question is — how quickly will they be used? Passenger safety and the interests of legal taxi drivers are now a priority.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**🏛️Parliament overrides presidential veto on law regarding permanent teachers — 29 votes to 12
**A majority of MPs voted against the president's return of the law. The issue concerns hundreds of educators who have worked in public schools for years without permanent contracts. Their dismissal in the event of redundancy is a matter of longstanding injustice, according to AKEL, DIKO, and DIPA.
🗣️ Christos Christofidis (AKEL):
"The Legal Service has become a tool of the executive branch. Is unequal treatment of workers within the same state constitutional?"
🗣️ DISY voted in favor of the veto but demanded that the Ministry of Education urgently find a constitutional solution. "We recognize the problem, but we cannot create expectations through unconstitutional means," said George Karoulas.
📜 The second law — regarding childcare in schools (before 7:30 AM and after 1:05 PM)
Its discussion has been postponed until April 23 — the last parliamentary session before dissolution.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**A majority of MPs voted against the president's return of the law. The issue concerns hundreds of educators who have worked in public schools for years without permanent contracts. Their dismissal in the event of redundancy is a matter of longstanding injustice, according to AKEL, DIKO, and DIPA.
🗣️ Christos Christofidis (AKEL):
"The Legal Service has become a tool of the executive branch. Is unequal treatment of workers within the same state constitutional?"
🗣️ DISY voted in favor of the veto but demanded that the Ministry of Education urgently find a constitutional solution. "We recognize the problem, but we cannot create expectations through unconstitutional means," said George Karoulas.
📜 The second law — regarding childcare in schools (before 7:30 AM and after 1:05 PM)
Its discussion has been postponed until April 23 — the last parliamentary session before dissolution.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**🕯️Tragedy in Germasogeia: second victim to be identified by DNA. Apartment was rented through Booking
**The identity of the second person who died in the building collapse has not yet been established. Samples have been sent for DNA analysis. According to philenews, he had rented the apartment through the Booking platform just days before the tragedy. He is believed to be a citizen of an Eastern European country.
🏚️ About the apartment:
It belongs to a specific owner, with management handed over to a company that sublets it to third parties. The company manager has not yet given a statement.
🕯️ Memorial:
On Saturday, exactly one week after the tragedy, friends and fellow nationals of the 27-year-old Nigerian (the first victim) will gather at the building at 7:00 PM. Those attending will honor the memory of the victims with candles and flowers.
🗣️ Context: Both victims died from crush syndrome (tissue destruction under debris). The owners of the dangerous building ignored warnings, and the apartments were rented out through Airbnb and Booking. The investigation continues. The question of responsibility remains open.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**The identity of the second person who died in the building collapse has not yet been established. Samples have been sent for DNA analysis. According to philenews, he had rented the apartment through the Booking platform just days before the tragedy. He is believed to be a citizen of an Eastern European country.
🏚️ About the apartment:
It belongs to a specific owner, with management handed over to a company that sublets it to third parties. The company manager has not yet given a statement.
🕯️ Memorial:
On Saturday, exactly one week after the tragedy, friends and fellow nationals of the 27-year-old Nigerian (the first victim) will gather at the building at 7:00 PM. Those attending will honor the memory of the victims with candles and flowers.
🗣️ Context: Both victims died from crush syndrome (tissue destruction under debris). The owners of the dangerous building ignored warnings, and the apartments were rented out through Airbnb and Booking. The investigation continues. The question of responsibility remains open.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🚗**Accident in Limassol: car crashes into EAC pole — driver hospitalized
**The accident occurred on the road to Kantou Souni. The vehicle veered into the oncoming lane, knocked down a road sign, and crashed into a low-voltage electricity pole.
⚡️ Consequences:
The pole caused a power outage. An EAC crew has been dispatched to the scene for repairs.
🚑 The victim:
The driver was taken to the hospital. According to preliminary information, there are no serious injuries.**
⚠️Police are investigating the possibility of speeding. The cause of the veer into the oncoming lane is being determined. Fortunately, there were no fatalities. Electricity is expected to be restored shortly.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**The accident occurred on the road to Kantou Souni. The vehicle veered into the oncoming lane, knocked down a road sign, and crashed into a low-voltage electricity pole.
⚡️ Consequences:
The pole caused a power outage. An EAC crew has been dispatched to the scene for repairs.
🚑 The victim:
The driver was taken to the hospital. According to preliminary information, there are no serious injuries.**
⚠️Police are investigating the possibility of speeding. The cause of the veer into the oncoming lane is being determined. Fortunately, there were no fatalities. Electricity is expected to be restored shortly.
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
🐷**Foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus: infected farms now 92, soon to reach 100. 34,000 animals culled
**The Veterinary Service has reported 7 new outbreak sites. The total number of infected units has reached 92. "With mathematical certainty we will reach three digits," said service representative Salome Georgiadou.
⚠️ Particular concern — a pig farm in Paliometocho (4,000 head)
The virus was found where it was not expected — outside previous infected zones, west of Nicosia. "Pigs shed the virus far more intensely than sheep and goats," Georgiadou explained. All efforts are focused on immediate culling.
📊 Total losses:
— Approximately 33,000–34,000 animals culled (sheep, goats, cattle)
— Plus 4,000 pigs and animals from new outbreak sites
💉 Vaccination (second phase):
— Cattle: 73.5%
— Sheep and goats: 56.3%
— Pigs in old zones: 84%
🗣️ Cause of spread — human factor
"Equipment, clothing, shoes — all of this transmits the virus. A complete stand-still is critically important," Georgiadou stressed.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
**The Veterinary Service has reported 7 new outbreak sites. The total number of infected units has reached 92. "With mathematical certainty we will reach three digits," said service representative Salome Georgiadou.
⚠️ Particular concern — a pig farm in Paliometocho (4,000 head)
The virus was found where it was not expected — outside previous infected zones, west of Nicosia. "Pigs shed the virus far more intensely than sheep and goats," Georgiadou explained. All efforts are focused on immediate culling.
📊 Total losses:
— Approximately 33,000–34,000 animals culled (sheep, goats, cattle)
— Plus 4,000 pigs and animals from new outbreak sites
💉 Vaccination (second phase):
— Cattle: 73.5%
— Sheep and goats: 56.3%
— Pigs in old zones: 84%
🗣️ Cause of spread — human factor
"Equipment, clothing, shoes — all of this transmits the virus. A complete stand-still is critically important," Georgiadou stressed.**
**➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿➿**
🤩FOLLOW CYPRUS NEWS **🇨🇾🇬🇧**
**👉CYPRUS NEWS IN RUSSIA 🇷🇺
22 messages on this day