The Council of Ministers approved on Wednesday a €1.3 million financial support scheme for three months aimed at supporting workers affected by the devastating fires in Limassol province, targeting employees and self-employed individuals unable to work due to damage to professional premises or business assets.
Labour and Social Insurance Minister Yiannis Panayiotou said the support will cover total monthly earnings based on Social Insurance Fund data, including coverage of employer and employee insurance contributions to avoid insurance gaps.
The first payment, covering August, is scheduled to be paid before the end of the month, with payments continuing until October. Provision exists for a potential extension depending on business restoration and reactivation progress.
Employees will be paid through their employers, whilst the self-employed will receive benefits directly.
The Labour Department will manage the scheme and provide individualised guidance to those affected, in cooperation with the District Administration, Agriculture Department and Social Insurance Services.
Panayiotou emphasised that the goal is rapid and bureaucratically simplified implementation of the scheme, using already available data and without delays. He said affected citizens can contact the ministry for clarifications regarding the provision.
Responding to questions, the minister said the number of beneficiaries will be determined once damage recording is completed. The three-month support period is considered indicative, with the possibility of extension if need is established.
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