The Cyprus House of Representatives resumed committee proceedings on 1 September, beginning its first parliamentary term since the 24 May elections. The opening week brings newly elected MPs and recently appointed ministers straight into discussions on fuel prices, education, family law and social policy.
The 56-seat House now comprises six parties, with Alma and Direct Democracy making their first appearance in Parliament. The Government also enters the new political season following August’s reshuffle, which brought new figures including Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki, Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis and Deputy Social Welfare Minister Tina Pavlou.
Fuel increases and support measures
The new term opened on Tuesday with meetings of the House Energy and Refugees committees.
During discussions on aligning legislation with EU law and expanding the use of biofuels, MPs heard that prices could rise from 2028 by approximately seven cents per litre for diesel and 2.5 cents for petrol.
Offsetting measures worth €174 million are planned for vulnerable groups.
Testimony concerning abuse in 1974
The House Refugees Committee also revisited the long-running issue of missing persons and heard testimony concerning the rape of a prisoner of war in 1974.
Members discussed establishing a registry of women and men who suffered abuse during the Turkish invasion. The committee also examined extending the care allowance to the spouses and parents of missing persons without income or property criteria.
Schools and judicial reforms examined
On Wednesday, the House Education Committee reviewed preparations for the 2026-2027 school year.
Education Minister Athena Michaelidou faced questions on staffing, textbooks and proposed changes to the teacher appointment system. She said she was prepared to submit a balanced proposal as early as next week, provided the remaining issues were resolved.
The House Legal Affairs Committee returned to several family law bills, while the Institutions Committee began examining the European Commission’s Rule of Law Report.
Committee schedule remains full
Several committees, including those responsible for internal affairs, transport, defence and audit matters, are due to meet on 3 September.
The House Health Committee will also visit Limassol General Hospital and the German Oncology Centre. Discussions concerning violence against women, social welfare, water management and agricultural policy are scheduled for 7 and 8 September.
