Challenges for accessible transport
Individuals with disabilities who rely on the Guaranteed Minimum Income face limited options for mobility. According to the Cyprus Confederation of Organisations of the Disabled (CCOD), without loans, purchasing a specialised accessible vehicle costing €15,000–€20,000 is impossible, despite state grants of €4,500–€9,000. Brexit has further complicated the second-hand vehicle market.
Transport allowances remain insufficient
Current transport allowances for wheelchair users cover only €75 within urban areas and €100 outside, leaving older or non-working disabled people without support. CCOD highlights that the grant for assistive consumables is restricted to applicants under 65, excluding many in need.
Calls for broader disability reform
CCOD urges, in its memorandum to Parliament, a comprehensive update of disability-related benefits, including increases to mobility and care allowances. The organisation stresses the need for timely assessments, adequate training for service providers, and removal of age-based discrimination to ensure a fair and effective social support system.
Parliamentary discussions
The relevant disability bill will be discussed today by the Parliamentary Labour Committee in an extraordinary session, with the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare present to respond to questions. Lawmakers are pressing for expedited horizontal increases in all disability allowances, while the bill also expands eligibility for state support and decouples benefits from the Guaranteed Minimum Income.
Organisations’ involvement
Representatives of disability organisations and associations will attend as observers to follow the Deputy Minister’s responses and assess the government’s intentions regarding the proposed reforms.
Also read: Disabled Cypriots still locked out of basic services in 2025
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