Tensions in Labor Committee over Disability Bill

Intense disagreements and debates occurred in the Parliamentary Labor Committee during the discussion of the bill on the rights and benefits of people with disabilities.

Organizations and stakeholders expressed different approaches to issues such as independent living, income criteria, and coverage of disability categories. The representative of the Office of the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights, Eleni Kotziamani, stressed the need for greater emphasis on children with disabilities.

Marina Pavlou from the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, stated that many rare diseases are not adequately covered by the new legislation.

The president of KYSOA, Themida Anthopoulou, emphasized that the total cost of disability for each person exceeds 700 million euros and is seeking an increase in benefits.

Dimitris Lambrianidis on behalf of OSAK and OPAK, expressed reservations regarding the consultation on the bill and home care benefits.

The president of the Pancyprian Organization of the Blind, Christakis Nikolaidis, opposed the abolition of grants for the blind and criticized the Attorney General.

The discussion will continue in future meetings of the Committee.