Large families in Cyprus are becoming less common, with a reduction of 765 families over the past five years.
Speaking on the morning show Protoselido, the President of the Pancyprian Organisation of Large Families, Dinos Olympios, stated, “This number also includes foreign families, who often meet low-income criteria and therefore receive full financial aid and allowances. Meanwhile, Cypriot families, particularly those in the middle class, are finding it harder to sustain large households due to economic pressures.”
He added, “The good news is that during the recent celebration, the President of the Republic announced a decision that broadens the income categories eligible for child benefits, offering support not just to one category, but to all large families.”
Olympios further explained, “Last year, during Mother’s Day, we raised a request for families with five or more children to receive child benefits without income criteria, and the President accepted. Now, those with five children and above are entitled to the benefit. What remains pending is the bill for student grants.”
He emphasised, “We constantly say that for a young couple to start a family, they need a stable home. This is why support is necessary for these families to secure housing. We have submitted suggestions and proposals to the government and the Interior Minister on how young families can be helped.”
“To raise children, you need support, and every child born today is wealth for Cyprus,” Olympios stressed.
Finally, he highlighted, “We must understand that every child, if raised with dignity, completes their education, and secures a job, will contribute back to the state between one and one and a half million euros in direct and indirect taxes. So, whatever you give to that child, it’s worth it.”
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