Christodoulides outlines support measures for young people and families to counter Cyprus’s demographic decline
In a Sunday video message, President Nikos Christodoulides presented housing, childbirth, benefit, leave and education measures that the government says are meant to reverse Cyprus's demographic decline.
Nicosia, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides presented the government’s package of support for young people and families in a video message on Sunday, saying the aim is to reverse the demographic decline of Cyprus. He said that since taking office his administration has worked to help young people buy a home, start a family and balance professional and family life.
Government message
Christodoulides said the country is being changed through policies that answer the needs of society and substantially improve the daily life of every citizen. In his words: “We are changing our Cyprus with policies that respond to the needs of society and substantially improve the daily life of every citizen.”
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According to the president, the government is carrying out housing projects with a total value of €300 million.
Allowances and benefits
The childbirth allowance has been raised to €1,000 for a first child and €1,500 for a second child. For each additional child it now stands at €2,000. Child benefit has gone up by 5 per cent, and by as much as 10 per cent for families on lower incomes.
Families with five or more children no longer face income criteria for child benefit and student grants. The criteria for state student support have also been broadened.
Leave arrangements
Maternity leave has been lengthened from 18 weeks to 22 weeks. Parental leave may now be taken until a child reaches the age of 15.
Education and childcare
The state subsidises tuition and meals for children up to the age of four, and for older children it covers up to 100 per cent of eligible fees. Compulsory education is now free from the age of four. The government has also set up new childcare facilities, increased the number of all-day schools and launched a pilot programme called “Breakfast for All”.
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