Committees push for timely approval
The Cyprus Parliamentary Committee on Labour has declared its readiness to fully utilise available time to finalise discussion on the disability legislation before the closure of Parliament, provided there is political will from the Government to accept proposed improvements. The issue was repeatedly raised during yesterday’s session by MPs and organisations, who largely agreed on the need for the bill to progress despite reservations over certain provisions.
Committee and Government statements
Committee Chair and AKEL MP Andreas Kafkalias stated that numerous suggestions, observations, and disagreements have been submitted, emphasising the Committee’s determination to advance the bill to the plenary before Parliament adjourns. He added that the Government’s willingness to accept input from organisations and stakeholders will be crucial.
Following the session, General Director of the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare Yiannis Nikolaidis urged all sides to act constructively, noting that “pursuing the ideal should not invalidate the feasible.” He stressed the need for swift article-by-article discussion and necessary amendments to enable the bill’s approval before Parliament closes.
Organisations voice concerns and support
Representatives from child rights and disability organisations acknowledged improvements in the bill compared with previous drafts, but raised concerns over gaps in holistic coverage of disability, including education, housing, and assessment methods. Positive measures noted include the separation from the Guaranteed Minimum Income, inclusion of cost-of-living adjustments, and the elimination of re-evaluation for children until age 18.
The Presidents of major disability organisations highlighted the need for urgent increases in allowances, legal guarantees for early intervention, recognition of ADHD, autism, and enhanced access to support services. While some expressed strong opposition to specific provisions, such as the abolition of long-standing blind allowances, most agreed the bill should proceed with targeted revisions.
Political support and next steps
MPs from DISY, DIKO, and DIPA reiterated that, although not perfect, the bill should progress within the current parliamentary term. They emphasised separating disability benefits from income-based entitlements, creating unified legislation, and eliminating discrimination among people with disabilities.
An extraordinary session is scheduled for Friday with the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare present to continue the discussion. The aim remains to finalise amendments and submit the bill to the plenary before the closure of Parliament.
In addition, the Committee is advancing AKEL’s proposal to amend the Occupational Safety and Health Law, ensuring that employees receive instruction, training, and supervision from the first day of employment, in an understandable format and language, with full remuneration during training.
Also read: Concerns raised over government suspension of blind allowance
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