A response to the demands of teachers in the Ministry of Education’s support programs, who are today escalating their strike actions with a rally at the Ministry of Finance and a march to the Presidential Palace, was provided by Deputy Government Spokesperson GYiannis Antoniou.
“They knew about it”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Appearing on the Alpha News program, he emphasized that these teachers were aware, when they accepted their terms of employment, that they would not receive unemployment benefits during periods when they were not working, and he questioned why the government is being criticized over this issue, given that it has already enacted legislation allowing their contracts to be converted to permanent ones.
Mr. Antoniou noted, however, that the government cannot examine the case of the approximately 900 to 1,000 workers in isolation, without also taking into account other groups of workers who are in similar circumstances. At the same time, he noted that the government has supported them with supplementary benefits, while the issue of unemployment benefits remains pending.
As he explained, this is an issue that requires a comprehensive approach, as a specific occupational group cannot be treated differently without considering the circumstances of other workers as well. A meeting will be held this afternoon between representatives of the strikers and an official from the Office of the President of the Republic, as the President will be absent.
READ ALSO: “The strike serves no one’s interests”: The Education Minister’s appeal to teachers
What’s happening with the allowance for breast cancer patients
When asked about criticism from political parties and social groups that President Christodoulides is announcing projects and allowances as part of his campaign for the 2028 presidential election—and specifically regarding the €200 allowance for breast cancer patients, Mr. Antoniou replied that this is a measure pertaining to 2027 and will be implemented, as the necessary funds have already been allocated.
As he clarified, beneficiaries will include both women and men who have been diagnosed with this specific form of cancer, while efforts are being made to expand the program to cover other forms of cancer as well.
The relevant announcement is expected to be made in the coming months, with the Deputy Government Spokesperson noting that this assistance will be in addition to the other benefits recipients currently receive.
SEE ALSO: Protest march to the Presidential Palace in support of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs; roads will be affected
“It’s not just a picture; it’s the reality”
When asked to comment on criticism regarding citizens’ financial situation and the potential disconnect between economic indicators and the daily lives of households, the Deputy Government Spokesperson acknowledged that pressures on society persist.
He argued, however, that the economy’s positive trajectory is not merely reflected in the numbers but also has a practical impact on daily life. “The numbers are thriving; this is not just a picture, it is reality,” he noted, explaining that the credibility of the Cypriot economy now allows citizens to turn to banks and secure financing.
He even referred to the difficulties of the past, when the country faced credibility issues, emphasizing that the current situation represents a positive development. At the same time, he acknowledged that problems and social pressures have not been eliminated, while insisting, however, that the overall trajectory of the economy is positive.
SEE ALSO: “We Are at a Critical Juncture”: Signs of a Positive Outcome in the Olgin Talks, 1+1 or 2+2 Agreement on the MOE
“It’s not perfect”
In conclusion, he also referred to the state’s social safety net, noting that people who have no other support can turn to government agencies for assistance.
He acknowledged that the system isn’t perfect, but emphasized that there is a safety net for those in need, at a time when even strong European economies are facing debt crises.
SEE ALSO: “People Shouldn’t Worry”: Antoniou Reassures the Public Regarding Iranian Reports of Attacks Against Cyprus
