Pancyprian Organisation of the Blind Criticises New Disability Rights Bill

The Pancyprian Organisation of the Blind has strongly criticised a new bill concerning the system of benefits and services for people with disabilities.

The statement notes that the document does not provide for an increase in existing payments and benefits, while part of the current legislation regulating services and rights is effectively being abolished or weakened.

Main grievances of the organisation:

• The bill was prepared "behind closed doors" without transparent public consultation.
• A two-tier system is created: all persons with disabilities are automatically transferred to the new system, with only three months to apply to return to the old payment regime.
• Those who transfer to the new system lose the protection of the old regime, while those who opt out cannot benefit from the new provisions.
• An age limit of 65 is introduced for several benefits, which the organisation called age discrimination.
• Payments will be calculated from the moment the application is processed, not from the date it was filed—which the organisation claims legalises state delays.

The statement emphasizes that "a person with a disability's 65th birthday should not become the funeral of their rights."

The organisation called on the government to legislatively guarantee the right of people with disabilities to independent living, full participation in social life, and access to information without discrimination.