Cypriot Blind Association reports suspension of state disability grants

The Pan-Cypriot Association of the Blind has announced that the processing of applications for the monthly blind grant has been suspended since September. This policy change affects new applicants, with 15 individuals currently denied the €382 monthly allowance, which has been provided since 1996. The organization estimates that the government aims to save approximately €8 million annually through these measures. Additionally, the association claims that since September, beneficiaries have been deprived of a 19% special domestic electricity tariff reduction. The group argues these actions violate EU regulations and place significant financial strain on 2,050 existing beneficiaries. In response to these developments, the organization is planning a protest outside the Presidential Palace. The government maintains that these measures are part of a broader rebalancing of social welfare funds. The association warns that the gradual reduction of support effectively erodes the rights of persons with visual impairments.