Cyprus Mail

WEDDINGS

WATER BEARERS LIVING

Couples are spending less on their big day and so are the guests Pages 6-7

Guardian angels for revellers dispense water and advice Page 5

www.cyprus-mail.com

July 22, 2012

TV and lifestyle supplements to see you through the week

€1.60

WIN A WEEKEND FOR TWO AT THE ALEXANDER THE GREAT INSIDE Cyprus Community spirit defeats crime in Dali 8

World ‘Heinous shooting a reminder that life is fragile’ 10

Lifestyle The Gaggle versus The Game as pick-up guides go head to head 19

Sport Wiggins on verge of Tour de France history 48

LIVING

Clinton urges focus on RES ‘Lucky you’ over gas but use it wisely, Clinton entreats

By Jacqueline Agathocleous

B

ILL Clinton, the former president of the United States yesterday urged Cyprus to expand the renewable energy sector (RES) to help tackle global warming, create jobs and keep energy costs down.

Referring to the discovery of natural gas reserves in the island’s exclusive economic zone, Clinton said “Lucky you”. But he advised Cyprus to make good use of its natural gas, and stressed the important role of solar and wind power, and tidal energy.

In a wide-ranging speech at the European University Cyprus where as honorary chancellor of Laureate International Universities he had been invited to speak, Clinton said he spent a great deal of time dealing with issues relating to Cyprus when he was US president from 1993 until 2001.

He added that he had strongly supported “the entry of Cyprus to the EU”, a comment which was loudly applauded by the 500-strong audience that included Foreign Minister Erato Kozakou Markoullis, Finance Minister Vassos Shiarly, former gov-

ernment officials, political leaders, MPs and diplomats.

He made several specific references to Cyprus in his speech including the effects of the global economic crisis on its economy.

“I should apologise to all of you because it all started in the United States, went on to Ireland and the UK and then spread across the world,” Clinton quipped referring to the high-risk mortgage crisis in the United States which triggered the global economic downturn.

He said Cyprus had nothing to do with the global crisis, yet it was suffering the effects and finding it difficult to grow.

As well as focusing on Cyprus’ potential RES wealth he offered some simple advice. “If you painted every roof white in Cyprus, you would immediately reduce heat in the homes by 20 per cent,” he said, adding people should “use less and change the source of what you use”.

He said climate change could be used to improve negative inequalities.

He said it was about finding the correct formula. If there wasn’t instability, then the world wouldn’t change

TURN TO PAGE 3

Former US President Bill Clinton greeting well-wishers on Nicosia’s Ledra Street yesterday ahead of his speech at the European University (Jacqueline Agathocleous)

2 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Home

The long wait for a buffer zone upgrade

Weather

Nicosia Troodos

36

28

Paphos

31

33

Larnaca

Limassol

33

TODAY: Thickening cloud inland and over the mountains may bring rain in the afternoon. Temperatures will reach 36C inland, 33C in the south and east, 31C in the west and 28C over higher ground OUTLOOK: Remaining a little unsettled in places and not as hot as in recent days

YESTERDAY

Nicosia Larnaca Limassol Paphos Paralimni Prodromos

max/min temp 37 - 25 32 - 24 33 - 25 31 - 23 33 - 26 29 - 21

SUNRISE: 05.48am

Humidity 41% 58% 56% 63% 44% 73%

SUNSET: 19.57 pm

Sunday Mail Established 1945. Number 21,286 NICOSIA 24 Vass. Voulgaroctonou, P.O. Box 21144, 1502 Nicosia Tel: 22-818585, Fax: 22-676385 email: mail@cyprus-mail.com LIMASSOL 5A Nicolaou, Pentadromos Centre, Thessaloniki St, Tel: 25-761117, Fax: 25-761141 email: cyprusmail@cytanet.com.cy LARNACA Tel: 24-652243, Fax: 24-659982

Buildings have been supported but little else

By Natalie Hami OLD BUILDINGS on the fringes of the UN-controlled buffer zone in Nicosia have been left neglected as the limited funds of Nicosia municipality and UN-run renovation projects are prioritised for other areas of the old town.

Communications officer at the Nicosia Municipality, Makis Nicolaides, said that officials at the municipality’s Masterplan - which has overseen the renovation of many parts of the old town - have completed a study covering buildings within the walled city part of the buffer zone.

The plan has recorded the architectural heritage, significance and condition of the buildings which have been left trapped in time and crumbling for decades.

He said efforts are being made to support these buildings but also to garner funds.

“We’re looking into the situation (but) at the moment there’s nothing tangible,” he said, adding that in the meantime a lot of them have been at least supported.

In recent years the Masterplan and municipality have gradually renovated sections of the walled city, but those

A UN soldier on patrol in the buffer zone surrounded by decaying buildings (CNA) in the buffer zone have been left virtually untouched.

An official from the UN peacekeeping force, UNFICYP, which controls the buffer zone said that in theory the owners of houses within the buffer zone can ask for a building permit from the Masterplan and then from the UN to renovate their properties. But he conceded this was unlikely.

“Why would they want to renovate it if they can’t live there,” said the official who preferred not to be named.

PAPHOS 62 Apostolou Pavlou Avenue, Office 2, 8046 Paphos, Tel: 26 911383 Fax : 26 221049 email: paphos@cyprus-mail.com

OFFICE/WAREHOUSE OFFSHORE C O M PA N I E S

FOR RENT 735m² of office space and 1200m² warehousing available for long term rent on Yianni Kranidioti Avenue very close to Carlsberg Brewery.

Easy access to Nicosia-Limassol highway (only 200 metres).

Loading bays for warehouses and parking space for more than 40 cars. Hidden fuel tank plus car mechanics station.

L L

Cyprus & Worldwide

Complete Service A.K. COSMOSERVE LTD 89 Kennedy Ave., Off. 201 P.O. Box 26624, 1640 Nicosia - Cyprus

Tel 22379210, Fax 22379212 Email: consult@cosmoserve.com

http://www.cosmoserve.com

For more information please call 99218866

HAIR & BEAUTY TRAINING CENTRE

Modern City and Guilds Training Centre in Limassol, offering NVQ Diplomas Levels 2 & 3 in Hairdressing. Greek and English speaking highly qualified British teachers. Also offering City & Guilds short courses in beauty treatments Tel: 25 104 374 Email: info@edens.com.cy Website: edens.com.cy

Address: 50 Ayios Zonis street, Arianthi court – shop 50A, 3090 Limassol

Generally people cannot live in the buffer zone, he said, except in areas such as Athienou where the distance from military forces is large enough.

He said that the UN, under the aegis of the UN development fund (UNDP), has worked closely with the Nicosia Masterplan, however it’s mainly on larger projects such as churches in the area.

He confirmed that it was a matter of finding funds from the side of the UN and Masterplan.

However, architect Andreas Lordos, who has a particular interest in the old town, said it was unacceptable that

these buildings should be left to crumble while so much of the old town is being renovated.

“If they (the UN) have the willingness there’s a way to do it,” he said.

He said it was particularly sad that certain areas that are on view to the public such as the UN bunker at Paphos Gate and buildings at the end of Voulgaroktonou street, partly in the buffer zone, cannot be improved since the rest of the area has been renovated, or is undergoing renovation.

“There’s no military reason for the Paphos Gate property to look the way it does.”

3 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

CYPRUS TODAY Conscript in hospital with heatstroke AN 18-YEAR-OLD National Guard conscript was yesterday in critical condition after suffering heatstroke, reportedly during military exercises.

The new recruit was taken to Nicosia General Hospital on Friday night in a coma and was immediately placed on life support.

The 18-year-old, who was at the Stavrovouni new recruits’ camp, started feeling unwell on Friday morning and was given sick leave.

He visited the camp’s doctor complaining of nausea and was given an injection to stop the vomiting. However, the teenager’s condition got progressively worse and by 9.45 pm he was taken to Nicosia hospital’s intensive care unit in a comatose condition.

According to reports, the 18-year-old’s fever dropped yesterday and doctors were planning to try taking him off life support.

AKEL grassroots gives its seal of approval for Malas AKEL party members officially approved yesterday Health Minister Stavros Malas as the party’s candidate for the presidential elections next February.

The decision was taken at an extraordinary congress of the party during which saw Malas` candidacy securing 1183 votes or 92.3 per cent, with 81 (6.3 per cent) voting against. There were 17 abstentions.

Speaking at the conference, AKEL General Secretary Andros Kyprianou said that Malas represents a reliable and democratic choice for every progressive citizen.

Home

Clinton: invest in RES to create jobs ‘Developed world needs to figure out a new model of growth’ (Continued from front page) over the years. But if there was too much of it like in Greece and consequently in Cyprus, he added, “things shut down, they freeze up”.

He said the developed world needed to figure out a new model of growth.

Clinton said he had loved being president, but it was always about two things: “What are you going to do and how much money will you spend?”

He said they never asked “how you plan to do it”.

He said if a government had obligations towards pensions that it couldn’t pay for, this was just as bad as unequal treatment, as it was making promises it couldn’t keep. He said opportunities for economic growth should be taken, just so long as the people aren’t being put at risk.

The Cypriot government owes the Social Security Fund, and the pension funds of numerous semi-government organisations, millions of euros.

Clinton was asked by one student to comment on the high unemployment rates, especially among youths.

“When you have nominal growth but no new jobs, that should tell you there is a problem,” said Clinton.

He made no direct reference to the Cyprus problem but did describe a recent scientific task students were given on global warming as an example of cooperation amid deep distrust.

The winning group had four students from China, Taiwan, India and Pakistan. “Their countries have been at each other’s throats for decades,

Shoppers stunned to see former US president taking a stroll on Ledra St FORMER president of the United States Bill Clinton yesterday caused quite a stir on the capital’s Ledra Street, when he visited the checkpoint and then sat to eat at a restaurant nearby, before heading off for a stroll up the pedestrianised street crowded with Saturday shoppers.

By the time the former president had finished his meal at Kathodon restaurant, the word had spread and scores of people - locals and tourists of all nationalities - started to gather outside, waiting to catch a glimpse and hopefully a snap of the famous personality.

As he started to walk along Ledra Street, crowds of onlookers with cameras gathered around him, kept at a very safe distance by his strong yet discreet security team.

ORDINARY

Approachable: Bill Clinton mingling with shoppers on Ledra Street yesterday put them in a group together and they were there, savvy and over everything their parents have been going on about,” said Clinton.

“I am sure I am right that the future belongs to those who choose creative cooperation over conflict.”

The university’s president, Andreas Eleftheriades, praised Clinton for being responsible for the longest period of prosperity and eco-

nomic expansion in US history.

Clinton accepted the role of Honorary Chancellor for Laureate International Universities in April 2010. The European University was the 13th campus he addressed.

According to the LIU website, his role is to advise some 600,000 students in areas such as social responsibility, youth leadership and increasing access to higher education.

While serving as president, Clinton’s administration made the biggest investment in education in more than 30 years.

After leaving office, President Clinton established the William J. Clinton Foundation, which takes action on worldwide issues such as climate change, HIV/AIDS in the developing world, childhood obesity and economic opportunity in the US.

Two women die in separate Larnaca car accidents A PENSIONER was killed on Friday and a 53-year-old Russian woman succumbed to her injuries yesterday, after being run over in two separate car accidents on Friday night.

The 87-year-old woman had been crossing the road near Larnaca’s town centre at around 7 pm on Friday when she was hit by a car, driven by an 86-year-old man.

The pensioner sustained leg injuries and was taken to Larnaca General Hospital’s orthopaedic unit where she suffered a heart attack. She was rushed to intensive care,

where she died around 45 minutes later.

On the same night, a 53-year-old Russian woman was crossing the Larnaca-Dekelia road when she was hit by an oncoming car.

She was rushed to Larnaca hospital and then to Nicosia, due to the seriousness of her condition. She died yesterday afternoon.

The 41-year-old driver was arrested and kept in custody for questioning, while police said he had not been drinking.

Seemingly undeterred by the early afternoon’s scorching heat, Clinton joked with his friends and seemed to take in his stride, the mayhem that was going on around him.

Kathodon restaurant owner Sakis Siakopoulos said he was amazed by how “ordinary” the former US president was.

“He was very approachable and he had great patience, especially towards the end when everyone was trying to take pictures,” Siakopoulos told the Sunday Mail. “His choice of food is very simple too. He doesn’t eat meat, rarely eats cheese and scarcely drinks.”

He added: “I was mostly impressed by how ordinary he is. He was smiling, didn’t have any demands. He has this air about him, but he isn’t full of himself. I really wasn’t expecting it,” said Siakopoulos.

4 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Home

Guardian A group of Scandinavian helps keep tourists safe

By Nathan Morley

Russia has increased the number of naval patrols in the eastern Mediterranean

Diplomats tone down media rumours over Russian ships Was the visit by two Russian warships to Limassol port this week a one-off, or something more significant?

By Stefanos Evripidou RELATIONS WITH Russia took a new turn last week when Russian warships docked at Limassol port for the first time in at least ten years, possibly ever.

The decision to allow ships from Russia’s Black Sea Fleet to dock at the coastal town got the rumour mill turning, with commentators trying to join the dots between the ships’ presence and the increasingly shaky situation in Syria, gruelling diplomatic battles at the UN Security Council, near-bankrupt Cyprus taking its begging bowl to Moscow and even the spread of communism.

Last Sunday, the Russian destroyer Smetlivy docked at Limassol port to resupply with food and water and rest its crew before heading off in the afternoon.

The following day, Russian tug boat Shakhter also docked at the port for a day before departing.

Both ships are part of the Black Sea Fleet and according to reports, were on their way to Russia’s naval base at the Syrian port of Tartus, the only Russian naval facility outside of the former Soviet Union.

The media claimed this was the first time a Russian warship had docked in Cyprus.

According to defence ministry sources, port records showed it was the first time in at least ten years but they were unable to confirm or deny it was the first time ever. Neither were they in a position to say whether more Russian warships could be expected to dock in Cyprus’ ports.

Since the Syria crisis, a number of countries have increased their navies’ presence in the eastern Mediterranean,

including the US, UK, France and Germany.

In an apparent effort to counterbalance Western positions and presence, Russia has increased the number of naval patrols in the eastern Mediterranean.

But can anything further be read into the Russian warships presence in Cyprus at a time when Cyprus holds the EU presidency? Some far-fetched press reports even suggested Russia is holding out on a €5 billion loan to Cyprus until the latter agrees to set up a naval base on the island.

One Western diplomat told the Sunday Mail that it was not uncommon for ships to make port visits for resupplies from time to time. The question is where you draw the line between infrequent and regular visits.

“It’s difficult to know when that will be,” he said.

REPEATED VISITS A visit by a ship is not inherently troublesome, but repeated visits making more elaborate use of facilities could become problematic. It could start coming into conflict with Cyprus’ policy on Syria, he added.

“It would be hard to isolate the Russian naval visit from the regional context,” said the diplomat.

There are various ways to interpret this but the fact the Russians are coming to Cyprus rather than going straight to Syria could be seen as an attempt to put less weight on their facilities in Syria than in the past.

“It could be interpreted as showing slightly more flexibility on the Syria issue,” toning down the rock hard support for Damascus in the UN Security Coun-

cil, argued the diplomat.

Another Western diplomat said the Russian warships visit was “not alarming at all”.

“In fact, we’re surprised it hasn’t happened earlier given the amount of other countries ships that pass through here and the close relations between the two countries,” he added.

The Russian navy’s presence in the region is understood within the context of the Syria crisis. But what happens next if Russia should lose its port in Tartus as a result of the fall of the Assad regime remains to be seen. “It’s too early to tell,” he said.

Speaking to the Sunday Mail, a Cypriot diplomat defended the country’s relations with Russia, one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council, known as the P5.

“Look, they are a P5 country. If they do us even one favour for every ten we do them, it’s worth it. We’re not the only ones who are siding with a P5 member.”

Regarding criticism that Cyprus is the “red sheep” in the EU, fighting Russia’s corner, the diplomat argued that Finland had even stronger views than Cyprus on the need for closer relations between the EU and Russia.

Asked what would happen should Russia lose access to its naval facilities in Tartus and start requesting more assistance from Cyprus, he said: “If Russia agrees to lift its veto on opening a Chapter 7 on Syria, then I don’t think anyone is going to have a go at Cyprus for letting them re-supply their ships more frequently.”

Chapter 7 in the UN Charter allows the Security Council to authorise military and non-military action to “restore international peace and security”.

JUST about any night of the week in Ayia Napa, thousands of young tourists head out to pubs and clubs, drink excessively and are left unable to function the next day.

However, a mission to help Scandinavian revellers stay safe and relatively sober hopes to help cut down on the hangover blues, whilst keeping an eye on vulnerable party animals.

The project, co-ordinated by churches in Sweden and Norway with the help of several hospitals, has sent volunteers onto the streets of the resort to encourage youngsters to pace themselves during their non-stop party sessions.

Known as the ‘Night Walkers’, and camped on two wooden benches on the notoriously rowdy Tefkou Anthia Street, Dag Folkestad and his team are on duty every evening from 11pm till 3am, handing out bottled water, chatting to tourists and helping those that have become worse-for-wear.

The group first started their work nearly five years ago,

thanks to an initiative spearheaded by the Scandinavian Church in Ayia Napa.

Folkestad, a Norwegian and a journalist by profession, says that dehydration is one of the main causes of hangovers, and drinking water along with alcohol beverages can prevent those symptoms.

“Two hospitals in Ayia Napa have donated 4,000 bottles of water to hand out – we are basically a water stop,” he said.

“Our slogan is ‘every second water’- meaning have a drink, then have a water. This is so people have a better water balance in their body. Of course they can keep partying, but they will have a better following day.”

Bjorn Rydberg, the dean of the Scandinavian Church, says the volunteers include people from all walks of life, but is manned mostly by older people who have families and ‘life experience’.

“One of our volunteers is 68, another is 70. We find the young tourists prefer to speak with older people,” he said, explaining that the volunteers from Sweden and Norway come for six weeks and are changed every second week.

CYPRUS TODAY Online betting shops swoop POLICE confiscated 17 computers and over €2,200 on Friday night in a campaign launched on betting shops island-wide.

The campaign was part of the force’s effort to implement the recently passed gambling law, which bans shops from offering online betting services.

“A broad scale operation was launched by members of the police island-wide in the evening (of Friday), aimed at implementing and maintaining the new legislation that was enforced recently involving the gambling law and online betting,” the police announced.

Police confiscated 17 computers, €2,275, a large number of betting slips and other evidence from seven shops in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos.

Nineteen people were arrested and charged, shop owners as well as customers.

Illegal clubs, bad drivers targeted NEARLY 80 people in Polis Chrysochous, Peyia, Kouklia and Stroumbi were reported for various traffic and nightclub law violations, during a police campaign to prevent crime and road accidents early yesterday morning.

Officers took to the streets to ensure road regulations were followed and nightclubs were abiding by the sound decibel laws.

In total, 44 drivers were reported, of whom 22 weren’t wearing seatbelts and 20 were speeding. Out of 20 nightclubs checked, 36 people were reported: 12 clubs for not having licences to operate, 10 for not being licensed to sell alcohol, seven for not having a music licence, four for violating the terms of their operation and three for not being licensed to sell cigarettes. According to the police, 15 fines were issued, totalling €4,500.

5 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Home

angels for revellers volunteers and sober Unlike the central square, which is often the scene of fights and brawls, volunteers say the Scandinavian district of Ayia Napa is quite a friendly place and most of the time people are getting on well and having a good time.

“They are really friendly, happy people, they are here to have a great holiday and party. We deal with mainly Norwegians and Swedes, but in the last week we have had a lot of Englishmen stop by as they head to the party area of Ayia Napa. They are amazed we give free water, they stop for a chat - it’s great fun,” Folkestad said.

For those they found in a distressed state, the Night Walkers often arrange ambulances or regularly provide First Aid to those requiring medical attention. Broken bottles left lying around the pavements causing anyone walking barefoot to cut their feet is a common complaint.

“A lot of people get too drunk, they don’t know where they are and some lose their friends, so to find us - Norwegians and Swedes who are sober - it is a relief.”

He said many of the people he meets on a nightly basis are savvy to the dangers of

Dag Folkestad collects hundreds of bottles of water before heading into Ayia Napa (right). Volunteers hand out water to partygoers to keep them hydrated (above) the scourge of spiked drinks.

Recent reports suggest that increasing numbers of women are claiming drugs or substances have been slipped into their drinks, leaving them dazed.

“Actually some people don’t dare to drink our water - or at least they challenge us to drink it first,” he said. “We tell people to be careful about where they put their drinks

when they are out, just in case.”

Rydberg says he is also aware of the so-called date rape drugs.

“We tell people not to leave their drinks, keep them in front of your eyes- because you never know. We are trying to tell people to please be careful. Not to start any fights, be calm - take care of yourselves and your

groups.”

Last week the British High Commission launched an initiative called “Holiday Hangover - Don’t over do it,” which supports people having fun but having fun safely. The scheme includes the distribution of wristbands, beer mats and posters that publicise emergency phone numbers for tourists that find themselves in trouble.

6 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Home Paphos urged to get arty for charity and culture capital bid PAPHOS residents have been invited to help complete a giant mosaic depicting the logo for the town’s bid to become the cultural capital of Europe 2017.

All funds raised will be donated to the Friends Hospice of Paphos which provides palliative and respite care for people with life limiting illnesses and their families.

The hospice is currently the only operational hospice in the town and relies solely on donations and fund raising.

“The colourful logo which can be seen all over Paphos lends itself to the design of a mosaic and the people of Paphos will be able to give practical support for the town’s bid,” a press release stated: Participants are encouraged to choose and buy a mosaic tile for just one euro. All of the pieces will then be assembled onto a panel which will form a giant version of Paphos 2017 logo.

Mayor of Paphos Savvas Vergas is allocating a prominent public exhibition space for the creation. Mosaic tiles will be available at a number of forthcoming events and festivals over the next few months.

Sharen Taylor, a well known local mosaic artist, is and the project’s coordinator.

“It is literally art by the people of Paphos themselves. By taking part they will be keeping alive the tradition of mosaic making in Cyprus and also helping the Paphos’ bid to be given the prestigious title of the European capital of culture,” she said.

Volunteers are also needed to help to assemble the tiles into the one hundred panels which will form the two metre wide logo.

Everyone is welcome to take part and a special one hour mosaic workshop is being offered to those without any previous knowledge of mosaic making.

For further information contact Sharen Taylor99603782

Weddings in tough Couples are spending less on their special day while guests are pickier about the weddings they go to and how much they give

By Zoe Christodoulides HOSE precious mounds of white envelopes and the amount of money tucked away inside are both shrinking, as the recession forces Cypriots to become pickier about what weddings they attend and how much they are willing to give.

Likewise, couples are thinking twice before inviting their parents’ distant relatives to the pricey sit-down dinner part of their weddings and are scaling down on exotic flower arrangements, costly invitations and even the bride’s wedding dress.

While still openly mercenary, extravagant and massive by northern European standards, Cypriot weddings have been hit by the economic downturn just like everything.

“My policy now is that I only go to the weddings of people that have invited me

T

Laiki Sporting Club is a popular choice for wedding receptions, but organisers say couples tend to invite fewer people. Right: wedding photo by Andreas Philippides. Couples, he says, are still prepared to spend on photos to the dinner. It means we’re at a certain level of closeness and they don’t want me only for my money,” says 30-yearold Alexandros Stavrou.

Having been invited to ten weddings so far this year, Alexandros has decided the idea of spending every other weekend in a long queue just to hand over a wad of cash is utterly bizarre. With the going “rate” for any wedding averaging around €50 minimum, it’s certainly no cheap affair.

“I’m just fed up of being invited to the weddings of colleagues I’m not very close to. Even if I don’t go, I have to give money and a card otherwise I’ll feel uncomfortable in the office and they may hold a grudge,” says a rather disgruntled Sophie Ioannnides. The 29-yearold is at the age where just about everyone around her seems to be coupling up and announcing their nuptials.

“Last May I was best woman and of course it was lovely

to do what I could for one of my best friends, but in the few months that followed I had another three weddings to attend of people who I’m ‘relatively’ close to,” she explains.

To top it off, there were two christenings thrown into the mix. “I had to go to all of them and I had to give a decent amount of money,” she says. “By the end of the summer I was really broke, so this year I’ve just become more selective.”

Marianna Evangelou expresses a similar opinion. “I get irritated because I have people like my neighbour from a few doors down inviting me to his daughter’s wedding who I’ve never even met,” complains the 43-year old. “The last three invites I’ve received I haven’t even bothered to look at. Imagine getting dressed up, interrupting your weekend and standing for ages in a queue for someone you don’t even know!” she exclaims.

But has the recession made her a little more careful with what she gives at the weddings she does go to?

“Oh yes for sure, it goes without saying. The thing is that Cypriots aren’t accustomed to the idea of giving a nice small gift, it has to be money. It’s the notorious ‘if I go to theirs, they’ll come to mine or my child’s’ kind of thinking,” she says.

As the recession bites, businesses catering for weddings have seen an evident change in the past year. Popular and well known designer Popi Michaelidou with atelier shops in both Limassol and Nicosia is outspoken on the subject.

“People are far more careful than they were before,” she says. “Someone who would have given €5000 a few years ago will now give €2500. And then there’s many people who have turned elsewhere for cheaper deals,” she explains. “It makes sense. If their monthly income has dropped people are not going to be able to afford what they used to on a dress.”

It also seems that it’s no longer commonplace for parents to cater to their daughter’s every whim. “Many parents are now struggling to pay off loans including what they took out for their children’s studies. I think it’s a bit ridiculous for a daughter to then ask her parents for a €7000 dress,” she proclaims.

“What will they do, take out a loan to wed their child?

That would be a laugh these days. I find it totally crazy for someone to give more than their means on a wedding dress.”

Popi describes how until a few years back she would get the daughters of building developers going into her showrooms and choosing a dress without even looking at the price.

“We never get that now.

People need to forget what used to happen. That’s history,” she says.

Though it’s obviously affecting her business, Popi believes there is a genuinely positive side to the belttightening.

“People are becoming more humble and will hopefully realise that it’s not all about

what you’ve got to show,” she insists. “And it has brought on tight competition for businesses which are forced to become more approachable. We’ve lowered our costs, lowered our profits and we’re just surviving. If we didn’t lower our prices we wouldn’t have any orders and would disappear.”

It’s not just the wedding gear that’s veering towards minimalism.

Many are spending less on the type of food and décor they offer at their receptions. But probably the biggest change is that couples are inviting fewer guests.

“People are just having much smaller events than they used to,” explains Elena Violari, head of EasyWed Wedding Planners. “Now they usually invite about 800 for the cocktail and 150-200 to the dinner maximum. It’s not like a few years ago where 2500 people would be invited for a cocktail and then about 400 to the dinner.”

General manager of the popular Laiki Sporting Club reception venue, Bambos Troulides, confirms that people are also being far

7 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Home Amazing book swap deal for kids’ charity

times

Wedding planners like EasyWed can help couples find good deals on essentials such as flowers more selective about what lly go weddings they actually to. “These days it’s about prioritising. People justt can’t y wedafford to go to just any e sumding like before. In the nvited mer, some people are invited to ten weddings a month.

If they give €50 each time, that’s €500 in total just on weddings. But that could be their shopping expenses for the month,” he says.

“From people I’ve spoken to it also seems they are given less in the ‘fakelakia’ (envelopes) these days. A man who got married here recently complained that many people only gave €30.

It’s hardly surprising; people’s wages have gone down and they are scared of losing their jobs.”

Popular wedding photographer Andreas Philippides has also noticed that couples aren’t spending as much on their big day anymore.

“They seem to have made cut backs on most things that’s for sure, but wedding photography seems to be one of the few packages that they won’t economise on. After all, it’s the one thing that will stay with them forever.”

In this light, people seem to be going all out with pictures, having become more demanding with their requests, often opting for offbeat locations and quirky backgrounds for their images.

As everyone’s budget decreases, couples planning to wed have also become more savvy, searching around for

GOT AN old book? Fancy a new one? Grab your old book, find one euro and take both down to a Public store in Nicosia or Limassol where you can swap them for a new book, as part of a new charity drive by the ‘A Dream A Wish’ association.

The aim of the charity event organised by Public and A Dream A Wish is to raise money to fulfill the wishes of children with cancer and related diseases.

Members of the public can go with an old book and one euro to Public stores either in the Mall of Cyprus in the capital or My Mall in Limassol and change them for one of the 9,000 new books offered by Public as of yesterday until next Saturday. The money collected will go to the charity which aims to make children’s wishes come true.

For each book exchange, Public will also offer discount coupons for the purchase of new books at the store. As for the old books, they will be given to children suffering from cancer and other related diseases.

Public manager Christos Noulis said: “We are very proud to be taking part in this unique, book-friendly event.”

the very best deals.

And as c o m petition intensifies, it looks like its good news for newlyweds when it comes to choice, as venues catering for weddings have tripled in the past few years offering a plethora of options beyond the typically expensive hotel halls.

“A few years ago there would only be one or two venues to choose from. It’s not like that anymore,” says wedding planner Elena. “And before women would just go to one flower shop and take what was offered. Not anymore.

People really shop around and they have also embraced the idea of a wedding planner who will find them the best deals and give them an all inclusive package.”

Some have found their own ways of dealing with the fact that budgets are limited and times are tough, often turning to online alternatives.

“I don’t take what anyone tells me for granted,” declares 30-year-old Rebecca Savvidou, who has been busy planning her big day for the past few months. “At the hotel where I’m having the dinner they said the chair sachets would cost €2.50 each.

But I’ve found them online for €1 each with no delivery charge. Why should I pay more?”

Scouring the internet in her spare time, she advises that

Who’s expected to give what Acquaintance or colleague: €30-€50 Good friend: €150-€200 Close family member: €400 and above Best man/woman: €500 and above

Smoke clouds Photo by Andreas Philippides who says couples are choosing off-beat locations ca be found if great deals can t you take the time to search. gett “I’m even getting my invites de beautifully designed exactly wan over the inthe way I want ternet ” ternet.”

Cyberspace aside, people are also now becoming more creative and budget conscious when it comes to their favours, from plain candles jazzed up at home with colourful ribbons and beading, to small plant pots and plain jars filled with sweets. Gone are the days where delicate

silverware or small crystals were boxed up as thank you gifts.

Others take on a full on DIY approach. “A friend of mine who recently got married happened to have lots of olive trees in her back yard and everyone got small jars of virgin olive oil decorated at home with a nice tag for the special day,” says Rebecca.

There are also various tricks of the trade to ensure cost cutting. “Big cakes are a trend now in Cyprus with

Cyprus Handicrafts

many people going for six tiers,” says Effy from the Cake Box confectionary. “But usually it’s only the top two that are real with the rest appearing like cake on the outside but just made of polystyrene on the inside.”

If weddings really are the things that dreams are made of, couples these days are certainly stretching their imagination to come up with some rather ingenious cheaper solutions to make the fairytale a feasible reality.

DENSE fumes from the burning of rubbish at a landfill site near Marathounta, Paphos are forcing nearby residents from their homes for hours at a time, they complained yesterday.

They told the Cyprus News Agency that the practice of burning rubbish has been taking place consistently and often produces suffocating smoke.

According to a spokesman for the fire service, the lighting of fires in the area around the landfill is prohibited.

Lefkara handmade lace, embroideries, crochet and needlework. Woven cotton cloth in traditional Lefkoniko, Karpass and Phiti styles. Handwoven traditional costumes, leather goods, silverware, copperware, pottery, mosaic, wood-carved items, baskets and other rush-made articles.

CYPRUS HANDICRAFT SERVICE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND TOURISM Lefkosia: 186, Athalassa Avenue, Tel: 22305024 Lemesos: 25, Themidos Street, Tel: 25305118 Larnaka: 6, Cosma Lysioti Street, Tel: 24304327 Pafos: 64, Apostolou Pavlou Avenue Tel: 26306243

8 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Home

Community spirit stamps out crime Staggering fall in Dali crime has followed the introduction of neighbourhood watch scheme

By Anthony Jackson and Bejay Browne

C

RIME in Dali has dropped by a whopping 27.1 per cent since the introduction of a neighbourhood watch scheme a year ago.

The joint initiative between local police, the municipality and a group called Dali Volunteers was sparked by a particularly brutal crime in which an elderly couple was robbed by two hooded figures on their way home late at night.

“A large part of the programme’s success is due to the collective grassroots effort contributed by Dali volunteers, the mayoral offices and the police, since many citizens were initially mistrustful of authorities involving themselves within their community,” said Sta-

vros Neofitou, an experienced volunteer who acted as chief organiser and coordinator of the initiative.

“However after they saw the involvement of volunteers and the wider community as a whole, they

warmed up to the idea.”

In just over a year the programme has grown from around 150 members to over one thousand which in a town of 9,000 residents means that over one in 10 residents currently participate.

Results of the project have been as impressive as the participation rate.

In one incident the netw work of volunteers locate ed a stolen car within 10 m minutes of the crime beiing committed.

The initiative now focuse es on training volunteers by teaching them how to protect themselves and by helping build trust between the community and their police forces.

Earlier this month, on July 3, the town gathered at the Eucalyptus Centre to celebrate the first anniversary of their highly suc-

in

New Modern Building July 2012

Larnaca

Undergraduate Courses (Bachelors) Tuition Fees: €6950 per year

BA(Hons) Graphic Design BA(Hons) Interior Design

35 mins from Limassol 20 mins from Nicosia

BA(Hons) Photography BA(Hons) Landscape Architecture LLB(Hons) Law BA(Hons) Criminology BA(Hons) Business Admin & Finance 9 Exemptions from

BA(Hons) Fine Art

Postgraduate Courses (Masters) Tuition Fees: €8000

MA Graphic Design MA Interior Design MA Photography MA Educational Leadership MBA

ALEXANDER COLLEGE 71 Eleftherias Ave., (Larnaca-Aradippou Rd), Aradippou 7102, Larnaca, Cyprus | Tel: (+357) 24532373 Email: admissions@alexander.ac.cy | Website: www.alexander.ac.cy | UWE Bristol Website: www.uwe.ac.uk

The highest ranking UK University offering degree courses in Cyprus -The Guardian, UK University Rankings 2012

3

Years

State grant up to

€3417

cessful programme. Faced with phenomenal results, the mayor of Dali, along with Themistos Arnaoutis, the head of Pera Chorio police department, had plenty to be smiling about. While crime in the small town has dropped over a quarter from a year ago, crime in Cyprus as a whole has dropped a measly 0.1 per cent.

“We are very happy with the results we have achieved, and for this year are looking to reduce crime even further by building better relations with the community, and its many businesses,” said Arnaoutis.

Dali is not the first community to introduce a neighbourhood watch scheme. On the other side of the island in Peyia, the scheme was introduced in 2010, mostly at the instigation of the large British expat community who had experience with similar schemes in the UK. Thefts had risen enormously in the region with the second homes of some British expats being a particular target as their houses often stood empty for long chunks of time.

Colm Connolly, the press officer of the Peyia scheme, said the first meeting was attended by 300 Peyia residents, municipality councillors and senior police officers from Paphos and Nicosia.

Initially, 200 households signed-up to the scheme, but according to Connolly, there are now more than 558 households taking part.

Peyia Neighbourhood Watch now covers a large area including Kathikas down to Peyia and Ayios Giorgios and Coral Bay. The entire region is divided into fifteen sectors. Each one has a coordinator and a deputy who liaise directly with householders about their individual concerns and needs.

“At the moment, there are only one or two burglaries a week in Peyia,” said Connolly.

In Peyia, however, the scheme hasn’t been without some teething difficulties. Connolly said communication between the police and the scheme is sufficient but could be improved as regards some officers.

“Communication is particularly good by senior police officers but it can often be weak by lower ranks,” he said.

But overall, residents feel far more secure, a fact acknowledged by the mayor, Neofitos Akoursiotis, and the municipal council.

“The council said they wish to give more support to the initiative and approval has been granted for individual Neighbourhood Watch signs to be erected on streets by the residents,”

Over one thousand Dali residents are taking part in the scheme which has seen break-ins and other thefts plummet in the last year. Below: the second homes of expats in Peyia were a target of burglars. The village set up its own scheme in 2010. The Neighourhood Watch Scheme sign is a common sight in many areas of the UK (left)

‘The schemes resonate with people’ said Connolly.

Both schemes have received calls from all over Cyprus - including Engomi, Pyla, Tala and Anarita - all wishing to establish a similar programme.

“After releasing our crime reduction results we have received calls from many other municipalities all of whom were interested in adopting the programme for their own districts,” said Pero Chorio police chief, Arnaoutis.

Neofitou from Dali’s volunteer scheme voiced one note of caution, saying that some of the districts interested in the scheme had complained they were expe-

riencing delays due to the government’s cumbersome bureaucratic processes.

These delays are unlikely to stop the wider implementation of the schemes in the long term, however.

The Minister of Justice Loucas Louca, gave his official seal of approval by attending the event at Dali where he noted that plans to expand the programme to a nationwide level were in the works.

Petros Patouras, the head of the Crime Prevention Unit, is also optimistic that the wider adoption of neigbourhood watch schemes is just around the corner.

“The fact that in Dali we started with about 150 people and now we have over 1000 shows that the schemes resonate with people and provides the police a unique opportunity to gain strong support and build ties with citizens in their work,” he said.

He added that the police are currently trying to push for a much wider rollout of the programme and are also currently in talks with various districts and municipalities.

9 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

World

Romney to provide contrast with Obama Republican candidate set to visit US ally Israel

By Steve Holland REPUBLICAN presidential candidate Mitt Romney will soon do something Barack Obama has yet to do as president - visit US ally Israel, where he will try to present himself to voters back home as a credible replacement to Obama on the world stage.

In the midst of a presidential campaign that is

too close to call, Romney leaves on Wednesday for a week-long trip to attend the opening ceremonies of the Olympics in London and visit Israel and Poland.

The aim is to give the former Massachusetts governor some foreign policy credentials and let Americans get a glimpse of him in action overseas as they decide whether to vote for him in the November 6 general election to replace

Japan set to probe radiation ‘cover-up’ The Japanese government says it will investigate a report that workers at the stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant were urged to disguise their exposure to radiation.

According to the BBC, Build-Up, a subcontractor for plant operator Tepco, admitted one of its executives told workers to put lead shields on radiation detection devices.

Otherwise, they would have rapidly exceeded the legal limit for exposure.

The Fukushima plant was devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Cooling systems to reactors were knocked out, leading to meltdowns and the release of radioactivity.

Tens of thousands of residents were evacuated from an exclusion zone around the plant.

Between November and March this year, a group of Build-Up employees were working at Fukushima, trying to restore facilities.

In December, a Build-Up executive told them to cover their dosimeters with lead casings when working in areas with high radiation.

Otherwise, he warned, they would quickly reach the legal limit of 50 millisieverts’ exposure in a year, and they

would have to stop working.

Build-Up president Takashi Wada told Japanese media nine of the workers complied.

Dosimeters - used to measure cumulative exposure - can be worn as badges or carried as devices about the size of a smartphone.

The workers had a recording of their meeting, the Asahi Shimbun newspaper said.

“Unless we hide it with lead, exposure will max out and we cannot work,” the executive was heard saying in the recording, as quoted by the paper.

The executive apparently said he used one of the lead shields himself.

A Tepco spokesman told Reuters yesterday the company was aware from a separate contractor that Build-Up made the lead shields, but that they were never used at the Fukushima plant.

Earlier this month, a Japanese parliamentary panel concluded the disaster at Fukushima was “profoundly man-made” and its effects could have been “mitigated by a more effective human response”.

All of Japan’s nuclear plants were shut down in the wake of the disaster but one, in the town of Ohi, has now partially restarted.

Nine workers are reported to have put lead shields on their radiation dosimeters to disguise their total exposure

Obama.

Aides say the trip is a “listen and learn” tour with no policy pronouncements.

It is a lower key version of Obama’s own 2008 trip abroad in which he spoke to a huge throng in Berlin in the heat of that presidential campaign and declared, “The walls between old allies on either side of the Atlantic cannot stand.”

Romney’s visit to the Olympics will allow him to

wave the American flag and play up a central piece of his resume - his work to salvage the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

In London he will meet Prime Minister David Cameron and other officials as well as former Prime Minister Tony Blair to stress the importance of traditional US-British ties. He will also raise some campaign cash from Americans living in Britain.

The aim is to give the former Massachusetts governor some foreign policy credentials and let Americans get a glimpse of him in action overseas

10 July 22 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

World

Colorado police focus on Batman suspect’s home Obama: heinous crime a reminder that life is fragile

By Chris Francescani and Mary Slosson A DAY after a gunman opened fire at a packed midnight showing of the new Batman film in a Denver suburb, killing 12 people and wounding 59 more, police yesterday prepared to neutralise explosives in the suspect’s boobytrapped apartment.

Dozens of law enforcement officials arrived at the apartment of suspect James Holmes at dawn, but it was not immediately clear if they planned to detonate the suspected explosives using a robot.

Police have evacuated five nearby buildings and created a perimeter of several blocks.

Meanwhile, a memorial of flowers and candles has been set up at the Aurora shopping mall where the shooting rampage at a showing of The Dark Knight Rises turned a movie screening into a chaotic scene of dead or bleeding victims. A handwritten

sign read: “7/20 gone not forgotten.”

The gunman - armed with an assault rifle, a shotgun and a pistol, and wearing a full suit of tactical body armour, a helmet and a gas mask - set off two smoke bombs before opening fire in the dark theatre.

Police said 30 people remained hospitalised yesterday, 11 of them in critical condition.

Officers who arrived on scene within 90 seconds of the first emergency calls quickly took Holmes, 24, into custody in a parking lot behind the cinema, where he surrendered without a fight, Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates said.

Holmes, a graduate student who authorities said had his hair dyed red and called himself “the Joker” in a reference to Batman’s comic-book nemesis, was due to make an initial court appearance tomorrow.

Authorities were unable to enter Holmes’ apartment, on the top floor of a three-story building, saying he had booby-trapped

it with what appeared to be sophisticated explosives.

Police declined to say what, if anything, Holmes said to them following his arrest. During an emotional press conference, Oates would not comment on possible motives for the massacre that stunned the community and the nation.

President Barack Obama called the shootings a reminder that life is fragile and promised that the federal government stood ready to do all it could to seek justice for the “heinous crime.”

“Even as we come to learn how this happened and who’s responsible, we may never understand what leads anyone to terrorize their fellow human beings,” Obama said in his weekly radio and Internet address, which was broadcast yesterday.

Witnesses at the movie theatre told of a horrific scene, with dazed victims bleeding from bullet wounds, spitting up blood and crying for help. Among

those taken to hospitals as a precaution was a baby boy just a few months old.

“I slipped on some blood and landed on a lady. I shook her and said, ‘We need to go; get up,’ and there was no response, so I presumed she was dead,” said Tanner Coon, 17.

The suspect may have blended in with other moviegoers who wore costumes as heroes and villains, and some witnesses said they believed at first that his appearance was a theatrical enhancement to the film.

“It was just straight chaos,” said Jennifer Seeger, 25. “Everybody was starting to scream and run at that point. He went straight from here to here with a gun in my face at that point. That rifle was in my face and I honestly didn’t know what to think.”

The shooting evoked memories of the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School in Littleton, 17 miles (27 km) from Aurora, where two students opened fire and killed 12 students and a teacher.

The shooter, who has been taken into custody, has been identified as 24-year-old local man James Holmes

UN chief to send envoy to assess situation in Syria

By Igor Ilic UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said yesterday he was sending an envoy to Syria to assess the situation as government forces and rebels battle for control of the country.

“I am sending my Undersecretary General for Peacekeeping Operations (Hervé Ladsous) to Syria to assess the situation as well as the top UN military advisor (Gen. Babacar Gaye) to lead UNSMIS (mission) in this critical phase,” Ban said after meeting Croatian officials in the Adriatic resort of Brijuni.

Ban’s remarks came a day after the UN Security Council approved a 30-day extension for an unarmed observer mission and two days after Russia and China vetoed a resolution to impose further sanctions on the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

“The unanimous vote yesterday on Resolution 2051 is a constructive sign,” Ban said.

Ban called on the UN Security Council to “redouble efforts to forge a united way forward and exercise its collective responsibility”.

“The Syrian government has manifestly failed to protect civilians and the international community has collective responsibility to live up to the UN Charter and act on its principles,” he said.

In Syria, government forc-

Children hold opposition flags during a protest against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad es pounded rebels in Damascus overnight, battling to reverse opposition gains in the aftermath of the assassination of Assad’s security chiefs.

Lightly-armed fighters have been moving through the streets on foot and attacking security installations and roadblocks.

But the heart of the city was quiet by 04.00 GMT yesterday, residents told Reuters.

“I am deeply distressed by the rising death toll and the growing number of people who have been forced to flee their homes within the country and across the borders,”

Ban said.

Ban said that the extension of the mandate of the UN observers was “a strong signal” that responsibility for ending the violence was “above all on the parties” in the conflict.

The UN chief said the Syrian government must stop the use of heavy weapons against the population and that all armed operations must end.

“The path towards peace is clear, there must be an end to killing and human rights violations and a rapid move towards the peaceful Syrianled political transition and dialogue.”

11 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

World

‘Philosopher-king’ is at the heart of unyielding ruling circle

By Douglas Hamilton

H

IS FATHER was a hard, ex-military autocrat and didn’t care who knew it. He has a soft gaze and came to power hinting at democracy and reform. But there the dissimilarity ends.

Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad has proved himself as uncompromising as the late Hafez, who ran the Arab republic with an iron fist for 29 years and, on his death in 2000, left his son a formidable apparatus of power, based on single-party rule, repression of opponents and a network of spies and informers.

Bashar was only 16 when Assad senior ordered one of the bloodiest atrocities in modern Arab history: the 1982 massacre of at least 10,000 Syrians in Hama to crush a revolt by Sunni Muslims.

The tactic worked. The lesson may have been learned.

Assad’s opponents accuse his forces of killing at least 13,000 people, including thousands of unarmed civilians, since March 2011, when Sunnis once again challenged the ruling Alawite minority led by the Assads. He describes his foes as foreign-backed terrorists who have killed thousands of people.

A world that had once seen the young Assad, just 34 when he came to power, as a hope for change watched with shock as this ophthalmologist with a wife who has a taste for London fashion proved to be one of the toughest rulers in the Middle East.

“Our age, like any other, is the age of the powerful only; and there is no place in it for the weak,” he told Damascus university students last month.

A few weeks earlier, he had told the new parliament: “When a surgeon ... cuts a wound, the wound bleeds. Do we say to him: ‘Your hands are covered in blood’? Or do we thank him for saving the patient?”

In a classified 2009 United States diplomatic cable, Bashar is described as a man who sees himself as a philosopher-king, but heads a group of leaders uncompromising in their determination to hold on to power.

“They persist in a lie even in the face of evidence to the contrary. They are not embarrassed to be caught in a lie,” says the US assessment, made public by Wikileaks.

Ten years earlier, as Hafez’s failing health moved the US embassy to consider the likely successor, another US diplomatic cable shows how far Bashar was underestimated.

“Eldest son Bashar is far from a sure bet to follow in his father’s footsteps, and in any case would never enjoy his father’s absolute grip on power,” it said.

Although he did not have to seize power like his fighter-pilot-hero father, Assad lacked the earlier era’s advantages.

The Soviet Union’s protective Cold War embrace is long gone, even though Moscow remains a firm ally. In the YouTube age, massacres like Hama cannot be concealed.

News of the Arab Spring spreads rapidly through the internet, which Syria’s secret service once tried to keep out.

On Wednesday a suicide bombing in Damascus delivered the heaviest blow yet to Assad’s rule, killing his defence minister along with one of the members of Assad’s innermost circle, his brother-in-law Assef Shawkat.

As the uprising has intensified, there are signs that the pressure is taking a personal toll.

Hacked emails to and from his wife Asma’s iPad reveal interest in the anti-ballistic Bullet Blocker barn coat, a casual jacket that can stop a .357 Magnum slug.

“I was asked several times last week why I look pale, and whether it was because of the pressures. I said ‘no’. In fact I was a little ill,” Assad told the students.

Unlike the late Saddam Hussein, who wore a pistol on his hip and fired rifles with one hand, the willowy Assad shows no outward sign of the ruthlessness, menace or indeed charisma of the archetypal autocrat.

But his language is as defiant as any strongman’s as he fights insurgents who he sees as the tools of the Western states and Sunni Arab monarchies that make clear they want him out.

Syria is under attack from the money, media and technology of foreign powers and their Arab agents “using lies, deception and black propaganda”, he told Syria’s young, educated elite.

“Resistance prevents chaos. Resistance has a price and chaos has a price, but the price of resistance is much less than the

‘Our age, like any other, is the age of the powerful only; and there is no place in it for the weak’

Raised on power, Assad risks all In the YouTube age, massacres like Hama cannot be concealed

Alawite show of support: a woman kisses a picture of Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad price of chaos.”

Bashar was thrust into the spotlight when his elder brother Basil died in a car crash in 1994. Groomed by his father Hafez as nextin-line to succeed him, he was accelerated through the army to the rank of colonel, and became president six years later.

The “Damascus Spring” that followed his early promises of reform in 2000 rapidly fizzled out.

Now, 16 months into a rebellion that has become the bloodiest and most intractable of the uprisings that swept the region, As-

sad has proved more durable than the four Arab autocrats toppled by people power or armed revolt since 2010.

Neither spiralling violence nor a collapsing economy nor international isolation have shaken his power base, centred on a clan within the Alawite minority, on intelligence services, and on an army of over 300,000 men.

Assad’s younger brother Maher commands the Republican Guard. His brotherin-law Assef Shawkat was, until Wednesday, the deputy defence minister.

Assad shows no sign of bending, driven not least by the fear of Alawites who believe they would be slaughtered like sheep if the largely Sunni rebels are victorious.

Lacing his political analysis with quasi-scientific language, Bashar describes a world in which powerful countries are driven to manipulate Arabs to serve their interests “exactly like cell metabolism, which needs the sugar that generates energy essential for the life of the cell”.

But the terminology of the London-trained eye specialist ends with a harsh flourish.

“It will not be President Bashar who will bow his head nor the head of his country.

We only bow to God almighty,” he assured the students.

The leaked US embassy cable says Assad “is neither as shrewd nor as long-winded as his father but he, too, prefers to engage diplomatically on a level of abstraction that seems designed to frustrate any direct challenge to ... his judgement”.

“He would prefer to see himself as a sort of philosopher-king, the Pericles of Damascus,” US charge d’affaires Maura Connelly wrote. “The President responds with anger if he finds himself challenged by visitors, but not until after the meeting. He seems to avoid direct confrontation.”

With news of Wednesday’s suicide attack on the heart of his government at a national security building in Damascus, the day of such a confrontation may be getting closer.

12 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Opinion How to trust a government with no credibility REPRESENTATIVES of the troika return to Cyprus this week to start bailout talks with the government.

They will have studied the data they collected during their last visit and estimated the amount of funding required by the banks and the state. They will also have formed a general idea of the spending cuts that will need to be made to ensure the loans were repaid.

A report released by Standard and Poor’s a few days ago estimated the Cyprus rescue package would exceed €15 billion, a staggeringly large amount. Initial estimates put the amount in the region of €10 billion, but the rating agency felt that uncertainty in Greece would necessitate a buffer amount for further credit losses in the future. As regards the government’s funding requirements, S&P estimated it at €6.59 billion.

Finance Minister Vassos Shiarly said on Thursday that the only given was that €4.5 billion was needed for the re-financing of government debt. It is a big divergence from the

S&P amount and although the minister’s estimate, in theory, should be more reliable it has become extremely difficult to believe anything the Christofias government says about the economy. Its trustworthiness rating is zero.

This is the government that has been insisting for months now, that the economy’s problems were caused exclusively by the exposure of the banks in Greece. Less than a week before applying to the ESFS for a bailout, President Christofias stated that “the Cyprus economy is doing well”. Once we applied, he and his spokesmen never tired of repeating that the government was forced to do so, exclusively because of the problems of the banking sector.

Should we mention the government assurances, last year, that the €2.5 billion loan from Russia would have covered all its financing needs for 2012? It is only July and the finance minister has been desperately trying to raise half a billion euros from the pension funds of semi-

Cyprus Mail

governmental workers in order to pay off maturing government debt, not to mention the millions owed to contractors, businesses and individuals that the state cannot pay.

Faced with this desperate situation, the government’s sole concern was how to reform CoLA in the hope that it would persuade the troika to keep it in place. The labour minister prepared a reform proposal and held meetings with union bosses and employers’ representatives in the hope she could save this absurd measure that has caused so much harm to competitiveness.

Devoting time to an essentially trivial matter like CoLA is indicative of how out of touch the government is with the seriousness of the problems facing the country.

It seems to be under the illusion that the troika will give it some friendly advice and impose austerity measures that have government

approval.

Even Shiarly, the most pragmatic member of the government, believed the troika would not impose punitive measures. “If we make some mistakes we will discuss them. We will explain to them the sensitivities we have in our country and I hope, at the end of the day, we will succeed. If some small concessions are needed, we shall make them for the good of the country.”

It defies belief that the finance minister, an experienced banker, is under the illusion that the troika would consider our “sensitivities”.

If the troika respected our “sensitivities” and asked us to make small concessions, the 10 billionplus loan would never be repaid.

It is high time the government woke up to the reality of the unprecedented crisis our economy is going through and prepared people for the big difficulties that lie ahead. There will be tough austerity measures including tax increases, public sector pay and pension cuts, privatisation of state

companies and the abolition of public employees’ privileges. Bank employees will also see their pay and benefits contract.

There is no other way.

This government’s monumental incompetence has devastated the economy but it still refuses to learn anything from its catastrophic mistakes. Three days ago, it took a bill to the House for the hiring of another 353 public employees - this is how it is implementing the freeze on public sector appointments and spending cuts.

The big question is: can we rely on a government that has no credibility and is led by a president who has no understanding of how an economy works and whose main advisors are union bosses, to handle bailout negotiations competently?

The simple answer is ‘no’, which is why the opposition parties must try - by any means possible - to become involved in the bailout talks.

The government cannot be trusted to handle the bailout on its own.

Letters to the Editor

Gay writer’s missed opportunity for ‘fine tuning’ LAST Sunday’s feature story “The Gay escape” by the self-declared homosexual Mr Ivan Massow, who flew to Minnesota to attend a course designed for turning gays back to normality at a cost of nearly $1,000 (plus flight?), was clearly a sham.

From the start, his sarcastic remarks made it clear he did not have the slightest wish or intention for any such conversion.

It was all worth it though, because this en-

Is CBA chief finally ready to discuss lawyers’ misconduct?

ON November 25, 2007 the Sunday Mail published an article, “The Problem with Lawyers” in which Cyprus Bar Association president Doros Ioannides signalled he would be willing to discuss complaints filed against lawyers under the jurisdiction of the CBA in more detail, after he had seen allegations by the Britons concerned. Not just Britons now I suspect.

That article was published nearly five years ago, but it would appear from reading the Mail and glancing at the internet that complaints against Cyprus lawyers, some repeat offenders, have increased - yet action, if any taken by the CBA against them, has failed to deliver any real safeguards to protect clients.

Might it now be time for Doros Ioannides to honour his 2007 intention? He must have seen several complaints by now and have a clear understanding of the problem and those involved.

Andrew McClay, UK

deavour won him a two-page centre-spread in the Sunday Mail’s Lifestyle section, to advertise his non-regrettable lifestyle.

As to his parting quote from the Bible that: “It is not good that Man should be alone”, aimed at justifying his choice of behaviour, God did indeed say so, but went on to make a woman as a cure for his loneliness, and not another man.

After all, let us remember what happened to

the Dodo without its natural other half.

From his photo, Massow himself looks to have the body of a Rolls Royce.

It would be a crying shame if the Minnesota service centre had others like him refusing the fine tuning to conform to the Maker’s instruction.

but the mindless, childlike politicians pay not the slightest attention to them.

They all want to hand out, and themselves to continue to consume, their cookies, candy, ice cream and cake, and are shocked when they learn that all of this populism, vote-grubbing and greedy personal nest-feathering has to be paid for – by us, unfortunately.

I respectfully suggest that ideally your team should be made up not only of economists and accountants, but also of professionals qualified in paediatric psychiatry!

PRESIDENT Christofias has said many things at the wrong place at the wrong time. And his English language skills did not help him or his audiences a lot.

However, I am sure that when he recently referred to a conspiracy of the markets he was not implying a conspiracy against Cyprus. Nonetheless there is an intense anti Christofias mania which has created a “competition” among bloggers and people posting on various forums as to who will criticise this particular president the most.

Being a village boy myself, I find it very tasteless or racist when anyone makes remarks such as “village idiot”.

I can assure you the cities of Cyprus and the world at large have produced as many - if not more - idiots, from all walks of life. And if I ever had to forcibly choose to be led by a village or city idiot, I would surely choose the innocence of the village guy.

As for the so-called markets, this is the only time and the only statement from the mouth of this president with which I agree one hundred per cent.

John Knowles, M.A. Econ (Ottawa), Peyia

TM Commenting via the Cyprus Mail website

A Dinou, Nicosia

Child psychiatrists had best be in troika line-up TO the soon-to-be-visiting members of the troika: you may be interested in having the views of a fellow monetary economist who retired to Cyprus 23 years ago.

Since then, I have witnessed the comical antics of our various governments with ever-increasing disbelief, aghast at the carefree abandon with which they set about the destruction of this country’s economic fabric.

We have seen the progressive hollowing out of the economy, leading to its slide into bankruptcy.

Left standing was a house of cards that has now been blown down, leaving only the dessicated skeleton of a once-promising young country that, blessed by climate and tourism, once

had everything going for it.

To make matters even worse, the present government (by far the worst of them all) is madly scrambling to take on a multibillion-euro loan from Russia – yet another future burden for the hapless taxpayer.

How can one “bail out” a country even while it gaily takes on yet another, truly enormous, financial obligation?

We could be forgiven for wondering if our USSReducated, proudly Communist president is deliberately trying to sell or give the country to Russia.

We can only count on you to close down this insanity fair.

Ultimately, but most importantly, you have to

know whom you are dealing with here.

Imagine turning over the household income to a fiveyear-old child. What would he or she spend it on?

Children have no conception of time, budgets, mortgages, debts, interest, loans, utility and other payments and so forth.

Your monthly income would be happily squandered on ice cream, cookies, candy and cake. And only a few days into the month, the child would be back asking for more money.

In a word, you must know that, in Cyprus, you will be negotiating with children.

There are many competent economic thinkers in this country, many of whom appear in the Cyprus Mail,

Better a village idiot than city cretin

Shoplifters are exploiting management’s goodwill Racism rampant despite EU spotlight I OWN a vintage jewellery shop in Limassol and have recently had to spend almost €500 putting perspex doors on units previously “accessible”, as shoplifting in my shop has gone up by about 50 per cent over the past year.

I want customers to feel able to browse at will,

but to some this equates to: “she can obviously afford to lose the odd item or 10”.

Patricia Dobson, Commenting via the Cyprus Mail website

MY friends and I recently visited Phinikoudes beach and wished to use the public facilities. The toilet attendant, on hearing we were from India, said we were forbidden

to enter. How is such racism possible in a state currently holding the EU presidency?

Pawan Kumar, India

Want to send a letter?

You can send letters to the Cyprus Mail by email, fax or post. Letters should include a full postal address (an email address is not sufficient), a daytime telephone number and a reference to the relevant article. A name and address may be withheld from publication if circumstances warrant. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Correspondence will be published at the discretion of the editor. Management is under no obligation to inform readers if, when or where their letters will appear.

13 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Opinion

We’re all used-car salesmen now An all-pervading crisis of trust is W threatening economic paralysis E DON’T trust the EU and we don’t trust our government. We don’t trust our parliament and we don’t trust our courts. We don’t trust our banks and we don’t trust each other.

To each of us, all the others, whether individuals or institutions, look like the proverbial used-car salesman who praises the qualities and hides the defects of his product to a degree that he makes us believe he is selling us a peach when he is, in fact, selling us a lemon.

Hence we learned not to trust him. And, when we want to challenge someone’s honesty and integrity we call him “a used-car salesman” or ask rhetorically “would you buy a used car from this man?”

No aspersion is intended against used-car salesmen, many of whom are honest and trustworthy, but their profession has acquired the reputation of un-trustworthiness due to the actions of a few unscrupulous salesmen in the past and it has stuck for all eternity. This is exactly what we risk happening to us with our thoughtless behaviour in a desperate effort to maintain the status quo, to secure our ill-acquired gains and to avoid paying for our past mistakes and excesses.

UNREPENTANT BANKS The examples are legend. Take some of our banks which we have been blindly trusting with our savings and our pension funds. Unrepentant for the big part they played in our economic predicament, our two largest banks have apparently been legally misleading people to put money in high-interest and highrisk securities, by playing up the high return in their oral pitch to their clients and obscuring the high risk in the small print of their brochures, just like the proverbial used-car salesman.

This was very much in character as they have being gambling with our savings, by buying Greek bonds even when the Greek economy was in free fall and the Germans and others were unloading them by the truckload. How different from buying used cars with our money is buying bonds at a 30-50 per cent discount in the secondary market or lending our money

Comment Theodore Panayotou to Greek businesses and households about to default?

Instead of apologising to depositors and investors that trusted them with their savings, banks tried to extract more money by misleading them to recapitalise themselves even if this meant de-capitalising their unsuspecting clients. This is a textbook application of the Cypriot proverb: “I blindfold you to sell, keep your eyes wide open when you buy” which is responsible for the demonisation of business and profit in our culture to our great detriment.

This would have been digestible if we could trust the rest of our institutions. But how can we? Whether it is the budget deficit, the state of our economy, or our national problem we are never told the full story? Our executive branch starts with a denial (“everything is hunky dory”), followed by a partial admission of the problem (“the problem is manageable”), followed by concession that the problem is much bigger but others are to be blamed (“the global economic crisis, the Greek economy, the banks”), followed by desperate and ineffective measures after the problem is well beyond our control. This is again very much in line with our culture aptly described by the Cypriot proverb “after she was raped, the granny put a lock on her door” or the English “we closed the barn door after the horse has bolted”.

When we finally “cry uncle” and ask for help

from our European partners we garnish our request with conflicting statements, with red lines, and concurrent search for alternative sources of help in the hope that we will get the funds we badly need while continuing to carry on with business as usual.

We don’t actually believe that mistakes must be paid for, distortions corrected and excesses eliminated. The result is that our partners get a sense that we don’t really want to change and we don’t much trust them, and in return they don’t trust us either. We inadvertently undermine their trust by our own actions at a time when we need their trust most in order to be effective as the EU presiding country.

But perhaps we can trust our parliament. After all we have only recently elected them to represent us and help get us out of the economic mess we got ourselves into. You would think after the Eurocypria 35 million euro debacle they will not vote another 31 million euro down a black hole to keep Cyprus Airways afloat for another six months. But they did exactly that, possibly against EU regulations, and by attaching some terms that inspire no confidence in the future of the airline.

Likewise, the way the parliament dealt with the big problem of the semi-public dinosaurs by limiting the term of their appointed board of directors from 36 to 30 months, does not inspire any confidence that they actually comprehend the magnitude and the root cause of our economic problems.

If not the banks, the executive or the legislative institutions, we can surely trust our legal system and the courts to deliver justice.

Unfortunately, we are not doing much better here. Whether it is the stock exchange debacle, the Helios airline disaster or the Mari tragedy we haven’t seen justice prevail or delivered in way that builds trust in the system. We have a way of deflating even the most serious injus-

tice and breach of the law with procrastination and delay upon delay, legal technicalities and legalistic jargon to end up with hardly a case to rule on. Satisfying the public’s sense of justice may not be the way to deliver justice in every case but when virtually all cases end up having the same fate, the citizen loses faith in the justice system.

Thus, while we are all, (the state, the businesses and the individuals) absorbed by our preoccupation with our dwindling bank accounts and the mounting deficits and debts, we should not lose sight of the even bigger deficit of trust that has built up in our society.

Our trust accounts are running very low and in many cases are in the red. There are not many around us we can trust or many who can trust us. Little by little we lost credibility and trust. Unless we regain both we will not regain our confidence in our future; the generalised crisis of trust threatens us with economic paralysis.

COMMUNICATING TRUST More than money we need to build trust in our institutions, in others and in ourselves.

Whatever we say and don’t say communicates, whatever we do and don’t do communicates.

We should make sure it communicates credibility and builds trust, not the reverse.

As business author Ram Charan famously said “without trust the rest doesn’t matter”.

Our market system depends critically on trust.

“Mistrust doubles the cost of doing business,” according to Professor John Whitney of Columbia Business School. And the only way to built trust is by being trustworthy ourselves.

Dr Theodore Panayotou is the director of the Cyprus International Institute of Management (CIIM) and Professor of Economics and the Environment at Harvard University. He has consulted the UN and the US, Chinese, Russian, Brazilian, Mexican and Cyprus governments. He has published and was recognised for his contribution to the Intergovernmental Committee on Climate Change which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. Contact: theo@ciim. ac.cy

Why Obama has just turned nasty Comment Roger Kimball

O

UCH. The Washington Post, generally a reliably Democratic organ, said that Barack Obama’s latest television attack ad against Mitt Romney was “on just about every level … misleading, unfair, untrue”. The ad described Romney as a “corporate raider” who outsourced thousands of jobs while working at Bain Capital.

Trouble is, the Post explained, Romney wasn’t a “corporate raider”.

He didn’t “outsource” jobs while working at Bain.

The ad was also fuzzy on chronology.

Romney left Bain in 1999, but the ad blamed him for things that happened at Bain well into the 2000s.

The Romney campaign has not been shy about pointing out these many economies with the truth.

“Deceptive”, “disgusting”, and beneath the dignity of the office of the President were some of the phrases Romney employed in response.

And yet the media here have been bingeing on Bain.

Is it working? The Obama campaign has dumped tens of millions of dollars placing negative ads. And yet one of the country’s most reliable pollsters, Scott Rasmussen, reported this week that Romney was leading Obama 47 per cent to 44 per cent among likely voters.

That’s well within the margin of error, or voter fraud, and people will tell you it’s early days yet. Besides, as Harold Wilson observed, a week is a long time in politics.

And yet, were I a betting man, I would be selling shares of Obama

Preferred short. The thing to grasp about this campaign is how different, in tone as well as substance, it is from the 2008 campaign.

Back then, Obama glided into office on a tsunami of goodwill. Forget the embarrassing speech about healing the planet and lowering the oceans, or the curious assurance that “we are the ones we’ve been waiting for”.

America’s first black presidential candidate promised to be a “postpartisan, post-racial” president: someone who would help the country get over the nightmare racialist legacy that has plagued America since Dixie.

That was not a promise Obama kept, but the hope inspired many observers, even many critics, to hope for the best when he was elected.

Things look very different now. Far from rusticating the issue of race, the Obama administration seems to be positively obsessed by it. That has contributed mightily to the campaign’s tone of bitterness and recrimination, which was absent in the heady, Greek-columned days of 2008.

In 2008, Obama raised $771 million.

John McCain raised $239 million.

Obama was young, bright, articulate and new.

McCain was old, bumbling, paranoid and inept. He also had Sarah Palin, whom I like but who was clearly a liability.

(A bigger liability than Joe Biden?

The jury is still out on that.) Obama also had George W Bush. That is, he was able to draw on the deep and widespread dislike of Dubya because of the Iraq war and (among Democrats) the sense that he had somehow stolen the election from Al Gore in 2000.

The Obama campaign has spent millions placing aggressive attack ads And then there was the economy.

Do you remember the wave of panic that shot through the world in October of 2008? “You never,” said Obama’s former chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, “want a serious crisis to go to waste.” And they didn’t.

Obama has disappointed some of

his faithful on the far Left for not going far enough. But he has, as Gertrude Stein once put it, displayed a fine sense of knowing exactly how far to go in going too far. He had hardly redone the White House carpets before he ponied up an $800 billion “stimulus”, had the government

take over General Motors, embark on dizzyingly expensive alternative energy schemes, instigate scads of new regulations, promise a raft of tax increases, and oversee the 2,700page legislative behemoth the world knows as Obama Care.

All of this was supposed to produce “millions” of jobs. It hasn’t worked out that way. Official unemployment just ticked up again to 8.2 per cent. What is known as “U6” unemployment, i.e. a figure that includes those who have given up looking for work, is nearly 15 per cent.

Those are disastrous numbers for an incumbent. Hence the harsh new tone in Obama’s campaign.

Mitt Romney is a rich guy, ergo Mitt Romney is an enemy of prosperity.

One trouble for this narrative is that at Bain Capital Mitt Romney facilitated the creation of thousands of jobs in various businesses.

Just a day or two ago, Obama told his audience that “if you got a business - you didn’t build that. Somebody else made that happen.” Early indications are that this attack on entrepreneurs is not going down as calculated.

Two further points. In June, Mitt Romney took in some $120 million.

Obama took in $71 million. This trend seems to be continuing and Obama has already burned through a huge amount of cash.

Many of the rich people who helped him raise more money than any candidate in history have closed their pocket books.

Roger Kimball is editor and publisher of The New Criterion and the author, most recently, of The Fortunes of Permanence: Culture and Anarchy in an Age of Amnesia Loucas Charalambous is away

14 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Opinion

The Trojans and the troika And our unnatural course to natural gas Comment Nicos A. Rolandis

I

HAVE been actively involved in Cyprus’ public affairs since 1976, but I have been following developments in Cyprus since 1960 when I was a young businessman.

It was quite obvious to any observer that what was happening in Cyprus before the Turkish invasion would inevitably lead to trouble. The Greek Cypriot leadership however did not get the message that Turkey might prove to be a dangerous neighbour.

On the contrary, they had the illusion that they would manage to suppress the Turkish Cypriots and “let them boil in their own juice”.

I recall that I was invited, as a businessman, to attend a meeting convened in the early 1970s by then president of the House, Glafcos Clerides, held in the large hall on the upper floor of the parliament. Approximately 200 people were there and we had an objective briefing on the tragic course that Cyprus had been following. I was very worried when I left. I had a family with three children. I owned, together with my partners, two industrial units, which employed 400 people. Everything was hanging in the air. And I wondered how could it be, that Greek Cypriots did not have a speck of brain in their heads.

Soon after, the hurricane struck: we had the coup and the Turkish invasion. Our leaders had not anticipated such a development. They considered that we were well fortified through international support and they thought that Turkey was

bluffing (this is what they think today as well).

Three years later I was appointed minister of foreign affairs by President Spyros Kyprianou. It was at that time that I realised that a large majority of the Greek Cypriot politicians fell into two categories.

There were those who “would not succumb” who aimed for the unattainable and the non-existent. People who would raise their expectations to a point where, as they knew very well, no solution would ever be achieved. In the other category there were people who couldn’t care less, persons of all seasons, whose only objective was to promote their own personal or other interests. Unfortunately, these two categories of people gradually led Cyprus to national and economic disaster.

When I was foreign minister 30-35 years ago, we had initiatives - the Anglo-American-Canadian Plan (1978) and the Indicators (1983) in particular - which might lead to a reasonable and balanced solution for both communities. We had almost no Turkish settlers at that time, no complex property issues, no rotating presidency, no huge investments

by Turkey which render a solution intractable.

As competent minister I had been handling the above plans on a daily basis. We also had messages from the Americans and the United Nations that Turkey was ready to negotiate. However, we rejected both initiatives. I disagreed and resigned in September 1983. What followed is very well known: year after year we continued with the same silly slogans, whilst the occupied territories were converted into Turkish land.

When I was foreign minister 30-35 years ago, the number of government and semi-government workers was 25,000. When I became minister of commerce, industry and tourism

20 years later the number had been increased to 50,000. Nowadays, they exceed 70,000. As minister of commerce I had proposed to a competent ministerial committee that we should appoint a firm of management consultants, as the large multinationals do, to study and assess each and every ministry, department and semi-governmental organisation, and suggest restructurings or the reduction of staff, where necessary.

The reduction could be done through attrition. I had mentioned the case of IBM which, according to Fortune magazine had, in the 1990s, reduced its personnel from 410,000 to 290,000, based on the report of a firm of management consultants.

My suggestion was eventually rejected because the unions would object to it. Now the troika will do it in an arbitrary way, after we have wasted billions of euros.

When I was minister of commerce from 1998 to 2003, we converted the eggs of tourism, which has been the powerhouse of the economy, into really golden eggs. We increased tourism arrivals from 2,080,000 in 1997 to 2,695,000 in 2001, that is by 29.5 per cent. We also increased the income from tourism from Cyprus £830 million (€1,418 million) in 1997 to Cyprus £1,280 million (€2,190 million) in 2001, an increase of 54 per cent.

After a fall due to the September 11 attacks in New York, both in international and Cyprus tourism, international tourism had a striking increase, whilst Cyprus collapsed to a level lower than that of 2001, both in arrivals and in income. As a result, the economy has been severely affected, unemployment has jumped upwards and there is no cashflow in the market.

I have referred above to a number of striking examples, to show that the mishandling of the national

Our confrontation with the troika will be difficult problem and of the economy over the years, have destroyed the country and its sovereignty.

We have now reached natural gas through an “unnatural” course of 50 years. I hope and trust that this gas will indeed remain natural and will not veer in unnatural directions.

When I started the efforts to explore for oil and gas as minister during 1998 and 2003, my personal dream was that the hydrocarbons might become a catalyst for solving the Cyprus problem. I made a proposal in this regard. Later on, I came up with another proposal, which included Greece, Turkey and Cyprus.

A number of foreign experts, including embassies, agreed and showed an interest. The Cyprus politicians however did nothing.

A last piece of advice: in order for natural gas to acquire real value, many huge investments will be necessary, such as an undersea pipeline for its transportation to the shore, a liquefaction plant and the creation of ancillary industries. It is a difficult process of many years and many

billions of euros, which must be secured. Good planning and correct economic and political decisions are vital.

We will also need a lot of realism and must get rid of any nouveauriche attitudes, which lead to absurd conclusions, such as the potential of substituting Russian supplies to Europe. To bring things down to earth, here are the world’s five biggest reserves of natural gas compared to Cyprus’ according to the Oil and Gas Journal. Russia has 1680 trillion cubic feet (tcf); Iran has 990 tcf; Qatar has 900 tcf; Turkmenistan has 262 tcf, and Saudi Arabia has 258 tcf.

Cyprus, meanwhile, has six tcf in its Block 12.

I wish you all a good summer, as good as it can be in the circumstances. And a good Trojan war against the troika. It will be a difficult confrontation. My wish is that it will help us acquire the speck of brain we do not yet possess.

Nicos Rolandis is a former foreign minister, minister of commerce and industry and MP

Britain and Japan’s holiday from history Comment Guy Sorman THE JAPANESE and the British may seem very different, but a closer look reveals something akin to a parallel destiny for these two island peoples. With their old imperial ambitions and widespread distaste for the great continents from which the narrowest of seas divide them, both the British and the Japanese are vulnerable to the siren song of isolationism. Unfortunately, both now appear to be succumbing to that dangerous temptation.

Perhaps geography is destiny. As islanders, Britons and Japanese have had wary relations with - and often a superiority complex toward their great continental neighbours, Europe and China, respectively.

Both historically compensated for their isolation with strong central governments, powerful navies, dynamic entrepreneurship, vibrant culture and imperial ambition.

Today, Japan and the United Kingdom pretend to be open societies, and to be stakeholders in the globalisation process. In reality, both remain mostly inward looking and preoccupied with the disintegration of their original culture. Both try desperately to keep immigrants

at bay, whether through cultural segregation in the UK or, in Japan’s case, by mere rejection. The more civilisations become intertwined in the new world order, the more the Japanese and British are tempted to remain aloof and apart.

In Japan, the isolationist temptation is expressed in the current nostalgia for the Edo period, from 1600 to 1868, before Emperor Meiji opened Japan to the world. “Back to Edo” has become a dominant mood and theme in public debates, promoted by writers, pundits, and historians like Inose Naoki (who is also Vice Governor of Tokyo), who argue that the Japanese were much happier within their closed world, blissfully insulated from the quest for material success and international status.

This “Back to Edo” discourse translates into the refusal of young Japanese to learn a foreign language or travel abroad. Indeed, in Europe, North America, and elsewhere, the omnipresent Japanese tourists of the 1970s have been replaced by Chinese and Koreans.

The number of Japanese studying abroad is at a new low at the very moment when South Koreans and Chinese are swarming into European and North American universities. Even the world’s great universities, from Harvard to Oxford, are seeing fewer Japanese students.

Here the British are very much

Prime Minister David Cameron’s government is now tempted to hold a referendum to ask the British whether they want to remain within the European Union mimicking the Japanese: fewer and fewer are learning foreign languages, studying abroad, and following the old path of working in Hong Kong, Singapore, or Australia. So prevalent is this “little England” mood that Prime Minister David Cameron’s government is now tempted to hold a referendum to ask the British whether they want to remain within the European

Union, a vote that even that arch euro-sceptic, Margaret Thatcher, never risked.

The prospect of a referendum reflects the overwhelming mood among the Tories, who sometimes mention Norway - a non-EU member whose main role in global affairs is to award the Nobel Peace Prize as a model for Britain’s role in the world. Of course, Norway has the world’s highest per capita income.

But that is not the relevant standard against which the UK or other Western countries should measure themselves, because Norway has a tiny, homogeneous, population and sits on vast - and well-managed natural resources.

If asked in a referendum, the British might well leave the EU, which they never liked. This would have the unintended consequence of strengthening the federalists on the continent, thereby accelerating the integration dynamic that the British now want to stop.

Indeed, the British would leave just when Iceland, Serbia, Turkey, and Ukraine, despite Europe’s current crisis, are trying to get in. And, while the eurozone may be in crisis, Poland, among others, still want to join in the near future. The British may turn their nose up at the euro - to which even the supposedly independent Swiss franc is pegged but it will almost certainly remain the currency of nearly 300 million

Europeans.

Isolationism, whether in Japan or the UK, is not only a short-sighted choice; especially for Japan, it may also be a perilous one, given the rise of China next door. Both Japan and the UK, much as they may not wish to admit it, depend on the global market. Isolationism would leave their citizens ill prepared to confront competition and their governments excluded from decisions that impact the global economy and trade. Nor can isolationism guarantee national security at a time of rising threats from terrorist groups and rising ambitions on the part of China and Russia.

The Edo nostalgia in Japan and the Norway model’s appeal in the UK are not rational choices. They merely channel national wariness at a time of global competition between cultures, economies, and emerging strategic ambitions.

Sometimes nations, like individuals, grow tired and long for their idealised youth - a recurrent phenomenon that historians call “declinism”. Whether one calls it that or a desire for a holiday from history, Japan and the UK today seem to be choosing a path that will only accelerate decline.

Guy Sorman, a French philosopher and economist, is the author of Economics Does Not Lie ©Project Syndicate, 2012

15 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Opinion Our culture has become one of expecting handouts without meriting them, of who you know and not what you know

H

OW is it that a country which entered the EU in 2004, and the eurozone in 2008, with a standard and cost of living better than most of its partners, is now classed among those seeking a bailout, having borrowed 2.5billion euros from Russia last year with no hint nor mention then of a much worse mess to come this year?

The answer lies in misinformation. When I wrote in a recent piece: “… the House of Reps, situated on a street aptly named, Nechrou (the dead)” I was admonished on the Cyprus Mail website by a reader with: “Not quite, dear learned journalist.

It is actually Nehru Street named after an Indian President of merit. Should I believe anything else you have written in this article?”

In response, I can only say that I often walk past the House of Reps and the road nameplate is given as Nechrou

uotes of the week

A terrible price: Paul Newman as The Hustler

“Mad. Insane. Inane. And a total all-round pain. The Gold Medal for Best Crazy Decision of 2012 goes to the numpty in charge of the Lanes.”

Broadcaster Chris Evans (below) on the Olympic Lanes

Comment Hermes Solomon in English and the same in Greek characters. I checked it out on a Road & Tourist Map of Nicosia compiled and designed by Christine G. Karouzis, Geographer - Cartographer, and printed by Selas Ltd, Centre of Studies, Research and Publications, 2081 Nicosia, a map which confirms the spelling as Nechrou. Not that the map is of much use since nobody here knows the name of the street next to the street on which they live nor cares about the irregular manner with which our local councils place bi-lingual road name plaques anywhere but where they should be, corrupting dear Byron to Vyronos and even dearer Gladstone to Gladstonos.

That said, I will pursue my initial claim that the reason for the mess here is misinformation. And this is due to a dichotmy of identity and indifferent support of a culture adulterated for millennia by outsiders, which led Benjamin Netanyahu to say with a smile on meeting our gracious ladies, Erato Kozakou-Marcoulli (Minister of Foreign Affairs) and Eleni Theocharous, (MEP), “I was told that this was the island of Aphrodite!” So what did he really think of Christofias?

EMBARRASSMENT Given that our culture revolves around the belief that we are Greek, and we give no space nor credence for any other definition of our origins, tell me, what was traditionally Greek about the opening ceremony of the EU presidency held at the Kourion amphitheatre at the beginning of the month? Some compatriots claiming they puked with embarrassment at the sound of purportedly Renaissance Cypriot poetry (pseudo metaphysical claptrap) enunciated thrice in different languages by a phonetically competent Greek actor attired in a Hong Kong silk suit and floral shirt, who was hustled by young wenches in loose fitting body stockings, (gals of doubtful intent and origin given the uncoordinated manner in which they writhed), followed by a couple who sang Cypriot troubadorlike songs to the sight of a pair of heaving breasts propped up close to the gal’s chin, the only bright spark of the evening being the male singer’s sunlight coloured blouson.

Surely we are a lot more sophisticated than that kitsch showpiece suggested!

Cypriots paint in their thousands, they sculpt, they compose and play instruments, they write and some read, if not books, newspapers avidly. They are well informed and usually excellent company at any dinner table, even if our insanely breast, bum and fashion conscious women can sometimes be self opinionated and righteous.

“We like a spot of precipitation. It intensifies the pleasure of the sun” London Mayor Boris Johnson makes the best of the bad weather

Time to stop the hustlers But to find peace anywhere on the island after midnight is impossible. In a country where windows should stay open we shut them tight against the perpetual cacophony of barking dogs and night time go-getters - car loads of guys and dolls who venture out at 11pm only to return home at dawn to sleep through Sunday and drag themselves into ‘rest’ on Monday; go-getters made up to the eyeballs, who chain smoke, play pop music at ear deafening decibels on car stereos with their mobiles juggled like pistols in a virile hand hanging out of the car window.

When our five major TV channels transmit the letter K before any movie, meaning that what is about to be broadcast is suitable for all the family, I switch off in the certain knowledge that the movie is inane Hollywood brainwashing, which denies the existence of any other culture at all.

TRUE TO THEIR ROOTS Sunday afternoon RIK1 transmits programmes about UK Cypriots, who in many ways reflect our true culture better than the indigenes do here. They have hung onto the past and are not out to banks for their skins.They speak Cypriot, not Greek. They love the old country as it was and few love it as it has become.

They are culturally much broader and more active, not confined to an island mentality which revolves around doing nothing for as much as one can get then

sleeping off hectic weekends. They do not compete for the top spot on the street with flash motors and concrete palaces.

They merit their jobs and papa is a rolling stone, not a civil servant who invites his entire family to work in his ever expanding government department.

No, our culture today has become one of expecting handouts without meriting them, a culture of who you know and not what you know, a corrupt and decadent system that has not only bankrupted the Cyprus economy, but like Faust, now finds us working for the devil, that God of all things, the eurozone bailout fund.

The Hustler, a 1961 sports drama movie tells the story of small-time pool hustler “Fast Eddie” Felson (Paul Newman) and his desire to prove himself the best player in the world by beating legendary pool player “Minnesota Fats” (Jackie Gleason). After initially losing to Fats, who tells Eddie that he lacks ‘character’, Eddie returns to beat Fats, but only after paying a terrible personal price.

Let’s hope the EU bailout stops us hustling others into believing we are the tops and we develop enough ‘character’ to put accountable people into top jobs.

What is the point of holding an inquiry into why our banks failed, when the Polyviou inquiry placed the blame for the Mari disaster squarely on the island’s most iconic hustler, only for him to disrespectfully refute the enquiry’s findings?

And guess what? The attorney-general supported him.

“The first two words that come to mind are ‘reckless’ and ‘pointless’. It is not part of any proper study. It is publicity-seeking TV at its worst” Julia Manning, chief executive of the independent thinktank 2020 Health, on the claim that actor Keith Allen has been taking ecstasy for a forthcoming Channel 4 documentary “Draconian measures making it illegal to bear children with horrible punishments for infringement are not going to work.

You have to convince the population that it is in their interests and make it possible for them to do something. The fact is, if we don’t do something, nature will. Quite simply, we will run out of food” Sir David Attenborough on his fears about population increase

“Garnishing is the art of the superfluous. It is an expression of prissiness in food. Garnishing is the biggest waste of time there is in the kitchen.

Take this as a declaration of war” Food critic and TV chef Jay Rayner “Money is the thing that people hold over you but to me it was just cotton balls. Don’t let it suffocate you. Don’t let yourself need it that much. I just thought ‘I’m free. I’ll go out and play some gigs and earn my living” Pop singer Joss Stone, who reportedly paid out millions to free herself from a contract “I like to live dangerously” 53-year-old chart superstar Madonna, who performed a raunchy striptease on stage as she returned to the UK

“I have a ball from the moment I get up until the moment I go to bed, and I think I dream funny too” Danny DeVito “At that moment, I realised I was right in the middle of the food chain” Hollywood star Matt Damon recalls how a great white shark swam right by him when he was cagediving in South Africa “It’s not his looks that women want. He’s never going to look like Ryan Gosling which, of course, is a curse I have to live with. It drives me mad” Jonathan Ross on Simon Cowell “I hate paparazzi with a passion. Disgusting pigs no offence to pigs” Singer Miley Cyrus

16 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

News Review Banks error TOP BANKERS conceded on Monday that bank staff may have committed mistakes and omissions in their effort to push high-yield securities on ordinary investors who have since seen the value plummet as a result of the Greek debt haircut.

The admission came during an extraordinary session of the House institutions committee convened to examine whether the €1.4 billion worth of securities sold by banks was misrepresented to their investors.

Bank share RUSSIAN billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev is interested in increasing his already sizeable stake in the Bank of Cyprus (BoC), reports in the local press have said.

The Russian businessman, former owner of fertiliser maker OAO Uralkali, has discussed increasing his stake in the island’s largest lender with the Cypriot government, daily Alithia reported on Monday.

The move could take Rybolovlev’s holding above 9.9 per cent, requiring permission from the Central Bank.

Mari ‘not guilty’ TWO FORMER ministers and four fire officers on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges in relation to the deaths of 13 sailors and fire fighters in the Mari naval base blast last year.

All six have been charged with causing death by want of precaution, and homicide by gross negligence in relation to events leading to an explosion of nearly 100 containers of munitions that also wiped out the island’s main power plant.

Hot weather TUESDAY marked the second consecutive day temperature records were broken this year, with the temperature hitting 44 degrees Celsius in Nicosia - an increase of one degree from Monday when people started being admitted to hospital, unable to cope with the weather.

On Wednesday night a 65-year-old woman died from heatstroke. Although she had several health problems a post mortem on Thursday said heatstroke was the cause of death.

Malas backed AKEL’s district committees on Tuesday voted in favour of Health Minister Stavros Malas’ candidacy for the presidential elections next February.

Malas got 95 per cent of all votes while the remaining 5.0 per cent abstained.

Malas was endorsed by AKEL’s central committee in June.

President Demetris Christofias in the Phaneromeni area of Nicosia on Friday taking part in a memorial service for all those who died during the Turkish invasion in 1974

Phew! What a scorcher He should be officially selected dur- predicting that a deal with the troika a party conference later this week on an EU bailout could be clinched Price ceiling Commerce ing when the central committee discuss- by early autumn.

With various numbers floating COMMERCE Minister Neoclis Sylikiotis Minister estees.comments by the district commit- around, it was the first time the Fi- has said he wouldn’t hesitate to place nance Minister put a figure on how a ceiling on fuel prices after the recent much cash the government needs to barrage of hikes prompted him to launch Neoclis Cash link meet its immediate obligations for an investigation into the matter.

He said regardless of any reactions, the years 2012 through 2014. and former interior ministhe ministry couldn’t sit back and obSylikiotis LAWYER ter Dinos Michaelides was on Tuesserve efforts to dupe consumers. day implicated in the investigations Petrol prices have been on an upUnficyp renew has said he into money laundering allegations ward spiral since the end of last year, against former Greek minister Akis THE UN Security Council on Thurs- with 95 octane unleaded fuel peaking Tsohatzopoulos, day renewed the mandate of the UN at around €1.40 per litre just a couwouldn’t Tsohatzopoulos.

72, was arrested last April on money peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFI- ple of months ago. Only recently was charges in the biggest CYP) for a further six months after there some respite with prices dropscandal in Greece involving a politi- days of wrangling between Britain ping to between €1.23 and €1.25. hesitate laundering cian. His cousin, businessman Nicos and other members over the need who was also arrested in con- to review the force. In a seemingly to place a Zigras, nection with the affair, testified to peculiar move, Britain chose to play Foreign residents Greek authorities on Tuesday and hardball almost on its own, holding that Michaelides transferred out against pressure from two thirds GREEKS and citizens from the UK are ceiling on said cash linked to the acquisition of Rus- of the Security Council until the fi- top of the list of EU nationals living on sian self-propelled short ranged TOR nal hour on a contested clause in the the island, according to recent figures draft resolution calling for a review of released by the Statistical Services. fuel prices M1 air defence systems.

According to the 2011 census, out of UNFICYP’s presence on the island.

State: €4.5b THE state needs some €4.5 billion just to refinance its debt, Finance Minister Vasos Shiarly said on Thursday,

QUOTES OF THE WEEK “The one thing we built in this country was deposits. There is unaccountability in bank credit, an utter contempt for the laws of the state, and it’ss ‘grab d it grab it while you can’” Famagusta MP Zacharias Koulias “The heat is insufferable. The fan only spews ws hot air back at me” 43-year-old Mary Georgiou “If the British have a problem participatticipating in UNFICYP YP, then the British sh contingent can an leave and there ere are other friendly ndly countries willing ling to replace it” Independentt presidential candidate George Lillikas (right)

“There is a disconnect; everyone is avoiding taking responsibility and we are observing this organisation move with certainty to its playing end, while everyone is pla dumb” General secretary of Cy pilots Andreas Pierides P “Deep-rooted structural str changes to the econoe my therefore app appear to us necessary if future fu prosperity is to be assured.” assured Ratings Ratin agency age S&P S& on the island’s isl finances n

“There is an international – allow me to say – conspiracy which is called ‘the markets’. These socalled markets are the highway robbers of the world” President Demetris Christofias “We have been battling for nearly 10 days not to allow the English machinations to succeed, who want to kill UNFICYP and leave us completely naked.”

President Demetris Christofias “UNFICYP’s there to create conditions for a peace settlement, but in about 18 months it will have been there for 50 years and there is no indication of the two sides being ready to make a deal.”

James Ker-Lindsay, expert on South East Europe at the London School of Economics

Cost cutting THE municipalities’ union is recommending cost-saving measures to its members but the state needs to realise that budget cuts have crippled local authorities’ ability to function, its head Alexis Galanos said on Thursday.

Galanos said they had put together a list of measures to save “a quite significant amount” by cutting down administrative expenses, restructuring budgets, and having greater control over taxes and services, among others.

Terror suspect POLICE remanded a Lebanese man in custody for the third time on Friday on suspicion of planning possible terrorist attacks against Israeli targets in Cyprus.

The 24-year-old, arrived here on a Swedish passport on a flight from Heathrow.

The suspect has not been charged with any crime.

Although authorities are keeping tight-lipped about the case, police said he was being held “on possible charges pertaining to terrorism laws.”

a total population of 840,407 around 667,398 are Cypriot, 106,270 are EU citizens and 64,113 are from third countries (the nationality of 2,626 citizens is not stated).

The figures from the service show that Greeks at 29,321 are top of the list of EU citizens living on the island, the majority of which are males at 16,347.

The majority of Greeks live in Nicosia – 12,429 – with Famagusta being the least popular area for them with a meagre 582 living there.

Pay delays BUILDING contractors are due millions of euros in payments for jobs carried out for the state, with some reporting deliberate delays in inspecting the work in order to postpone payment further.

According to the head of the Federation of Associations of Building Contractors Cyprus (OSEOK), Nicos Kelepeshis, these delays have been taking place for a long time.

“The truth is we have been facing delays from the various authorities for a while now,” Kelepeshis told state broadcaster CyBC. “This isn’t something new; we are talking about final payments and settling of bills for work that was carried out and passed through the inspections, and for which an order was issued for payment.”

He added, “We have examples that have taken years”.

17 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Coffeeshop

Introducing the New World Order CYPRUS did not apply to the European support mechanism for a bailout because our state is bankrupt; nor did we apply exclusively because of our banks’ exposure to Greece, as our government has been claiming ad nauseam.

There are much darker and more sinister reasons behind our reluctant appeal for help. We have been the victims of an international conspiracy and it must be the truth because our comrade president said so. He made this shocking revelation while speaking on Wednesday night to a gathering of the relatives of the missing.

He said: “There is an international - allow me to say it - conspiracy which listens to the name of markets. The markets are the big thieves of the universe. That is the reality; they want to subjugate entire peoples under their exploitation and their control.

This is happening.”

Other European leaders were not as smart as the comrade to fully comprehend the dangers posed by the international conspiracy.

“They started to understand this in the European Union but until they fully realise what is going on, I do not know how high a price will be paid by the peoples of the union and elsewhere.”

THE COMRADE was aware of the gravity of his revelations and tried to explain how he had arrived at this astute conclusion.

“Heavy words the president is using, but this the reality. Why? Because there are expediencies. Why is Greece suffering to the degree she is suffering today? Because, beyond the Greek responsibilities there are expediencies. Why, tomorrow could Cyprus find itself in the maelstrom and the clamp? Because there were expediencies internally and there are expediencies externally which are related to interests of classes and people.”

Unfortunately, this was all the comrade was prepared to say and he has not elaborated on his conspiracy theory since Wednesday.

This was disappointing because the people of the EU deserve to know who is behind the “big thieves of the universe”.

In fact, now that we have the EU presidency he has a moral obligation to alert EU governments and citizens to the dangers posed by the international conspiracy, before it is too late. The “big thieves of the universe” must be stopped now.

WE RESIDENTS of the island of annihilating heat have a right to be told what are the “expediencies internally which are related to interests of classes and people” and would put our Kyproulla in the clamp.

Is it Ethnarch Junior, Averof, the Fuhrer, Orphanides (not the supermarket), Shacolas, Sarris, the Archbishop, Stavrakis, Polyviou, Galanos, Vass? He needs to give names or at least identify the social class behind the expediencies.

The biggest conspiracy-buster in the history of the Republic, the late Spy Kyp, did not only name conspirators, he had them arrested and charged; if they were foreign he would immediately have them deported. He may have been a nut-case but he had balls.

Tof, in contrast, is a calculating commie who came up with the international conspiracy to shift blame from himself for the austerity measures that will be imposed.

A MINION probably found the conspiracy theory about the Illuminati and the New World Order on the internet and briefed the comrade who must have considered it right up his street.

Tof’s shocking revelations were made to a bemused gathering of the relatives of the missing on Wednesday

debt. Not even the unions, for the sake of which he destroyed our economy, were willing to bail the government out.

Vassos Shiarly had asked the Electricity Authority unions to loan the government €200 million from their pension fund for three months and they said ‘no’. After everything the comrade had done for them, the unions should have the decency to buy €200 million worth of junk bonds even if there is the possibility of a hair-cut.

Behind this conspiracy are the Illuminati, the Bilderberg Group and other members of the financial and political elite which are plotting to rule the world with a single authoritarian government – the New World Order. Internet nut-cases have listed the Pope, Queen Elizabeth, George Soros, George Bush and Barack Obama among its members.

They have supposedly engineered many historical events with the aim of setting up the New World Order which Akelites regularly refer to. According to The Telegraph web-site, “international organisations such as the World Bank, IMF, the European Union, the UN and NATO are listed as founding organisations of the New World Order”.

We all know how the comrade feels about all these organisations. In Wednesday’s speech he even had a dig at the UN, saying in relation to nothing: “Expediencies are in the soul of the UN and of the international community”.

THE INTERNATIONAL conspiracy is the only thing left on which the comrade can blame the austerity tsunami that is heading our way. He can no longer claim he applied to the EFSF solely because of the exposure of the banks in Greece, as the finance minister revealed the government’s own bailout requirements would be €4.5 billion.

Everything is falling apart for the comrade, whose government cannot even raise the half a billion it requires in the next couple of months for maturing government

UNION ingratitude must have been difficult to take, but it could not have hurt half as much as being snubbed by Mother Russia, on which he had pinned his hopes for another loan. There have been mixed messages from the government with regard to the loan.

Government spokesman Stef-Stef said on Friday that no word had been received from Moscow regarding the loan. A day earlier, Central Bank Governor Professor Panicos told the House Finance Committee that the government would cover all its financial needs with money from the EFSF because the terms for a Russian loan were not as good – the interest rate would be higher and repayment period shorter.

How did he know all this considering the government had not received word from mummy Russia about the loan?

PROFESSOR Panicos was so angered by the questions put to him by deputies, regarding the ‘re-organisation’ of the Central Bank - promotion of AKEL apparatchiks and sidelining of managers who were trusted by the previous governor - that on Friday he sent a letter of complaint to the finance committee.

In his letter he stressed that the restructuring of the bank, assignment of responsibilities, utilisation of personnel, etc were internal matters that were the “exclusive responsibility of the governor”. Such discussions “not only undermine the prestige of the Central Bank, but could also be interpreted as interference in its institutional independence and autonomy,” he wrote.

The man really has a nerve.

Everyone knows that the restructuring of the Central Bank was carried out by the AKEL Central Committee, which did not even give time to the new governor to evaluate his senior management team, and thus maintain the pretence that he had take the decisions.

In his first full week in charge, before he had a chance to meet and talk to senior managers those who worked well under Orphanides were marginalised and all their powers given to loyal Akelites of questionable abilities.

This was real interference in the institutional independence and autonomy of the Central Bank, but the governor did not send a letter to the AKEL Central Committee and the president telling them that this undermined the Central Bank’s prestige.

THE PANCYPRIAN Association of Investors (Pasecha) issued an announcement on Friday castigating the “small number of opposition deputies” for “interference” in the internal affairs of the Central Bank. The Pasecha comrades must be big fans of Panicos.

It condemned the “dangerous and foolish games of some whose purpose is to undermine the prestige of the Central Bank”. This ridiculous association said it would investigate the matter and report deputies and political parties, found to have been rude to the Professor.

It also said it would explore the possibility of reporting the deputies to the European Commission, the ECB and the European Parliament, presumably for crimes against mediocrity.

NEW CEO of the B of C, Yiannis Kypris, spoke to the bank’s employees on Thursday and apologised to them for the mistakes made by the senior management.

He apologised personally and on behalf of his predecessor Andreas Eliades, who showed not a hint of contrition for wrecking the bank in his letter of resignation.

It was commendable that he took responsibility and did not blame the bank’s woes on the international conspiracy that caused our state’s financial problems.

THE COMMIES were more aggressive than usual, upping the hatred-stirring, in marking the anniversary of the coup this year. Apart from the familiar rhetoric about the fascist traitors who opened the way to the Turkish invasion and the “criminal role” played by Britain, America and NATO, Akelites also attacked the hapless Fuhrer, Nice Nik. The lead story in Tuesday’s edition of Haravghi was headlined ‘No to the lawyer of Eoka B’. There was even a picture of a young Fuhrer, sporting long 70s sideburns outside the court house with a group of men with moustaches, who were supposedly Eoka B members that he was representing.

The accompanying article started thus: “The unaffected by time, behaviour and actions of presidential candidate Nicos Anastassiades, is an insult to historical truth, the struggle of the Resistance and the struggle for democracy.”

The Pancyprian Association of Democratic Resistance Fighters, the report said, was opposed to the candidacy of Anastassiades and called on every democratic citizen not to vote for him, because he attended the Grivas memorial service every year, was a lawyer of members of Eoka B and was on a mission to insult historical truth. The Association failed to mention also that in the seventies he had horrible sideburns, the most compelling reason not to vote for him.

WHEN AKEL wants to have a go at someone it orders one of its puppet organisations like Pasecha or the Democratic Resistance Fighters to issue a public statement against its target. The chairman of the Resistance Fighters Elias Kyriakides, a former Limassol police chief, was merely following orders in urging people not to vote for Nik through Haravghi.

A few days before he was instructed to take a public stand against the Fuhrer’s candidacy the two had been guests at a dinner party in Platres where they drank and sang together like the best of friends.

EVERYBODY knows the comrade’s favourite minister is the insufferably self-important Sotiroulla Charalambous, whom he regularly praises in front of her colleagues.

What nobody knows, apart from those who attend cabinet meetings, is that he is so fond of her he often addresses her as ‘bourekka mou’, an affectionate term that is also patronising and majestically ‘villager’.

He never uses the term when addressing Erato Kozakou Markoulli.

The president’s ‘bourekka’ will be a member of the ministerial team that will negotiate bailout terms with the troika, the members of which will all have a good laugh when she presents her proposal for reforming CoLA. It envisages that only employees earning more than €4,800 per month would not be entitled to receive it.

SHE IS not the only member of the negotiating team that is completely out of touch with the real world. Her colleague Shiarly was convinced that the Troikans would not impose punitive austerity measures. “We will explain to them the sensitivities we have in our country and I hope, at the end of the day, we will succeed,” he said, without a hint of irony.

Did his boss not inform him that we are the victims of an international conspiracy and the big thieves of the universe who want to subjugate people under their exploitation and control, at the end of the night, will not give a damn about our sensitivities?

18 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

World in pictures

Sebastien Laurent, manager of the zoo, gives, mouth to mouth, a slice of cake to Major, the oldest captive OrangOutang in the world at a zoo near Nantes, France (AFP)

A man walks past a street art caricature of Portuguese football player Eusebio at the Lisbon airport subway station

(AFP)

Britain’s Nick Robinson-Baker (left) and Chris Mears practice their synchronised diving (AFP)

Golf spectators wearing tiger suits wait for Tiger Woods at Royal Lytham and St Annes in Lytham (AFP)

An Indian artist dressed as Hindu Goddess MahaKali performs in the street during the final procession of the eleven day traditional festival of Bonalu in Hyderabad (AFP)

French Elysee Palace chef Bernard Vaussion and Germany’s Chancellery chef Ulrich Kerz pose during a meeting of the club of chefs who cook for state leaders (AFP)

A display of official British Olympic team training shoes for all disciplines in the fitting room at the Team GB training centre (AFP)

People hold portraits of victims of the terrorist bombing attack against the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association institute 18 years ago (AFP)

The nose and front landing gear of the Space Shuttle Enterprise on display in New York (AFP)

19 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Lifestyle Spoiled for choice: The Gaggle says single women should use their existing male friends to judge what sort of man they really desire

The Gaggle versus The Game

D

ing, dong, dating is dead! proclaims the latest how-to-baga-man manual to hit the bookshop shelves.

The Gaggle, written by Harvard graduate Jessica Massa in a style that single-handedly devalues an Ivy League education, was only published in the US last month and yet - in the latest sign of Hollywood’s insatiable appetite for selfhelp guides - it has already been optioned for a film.

The Gaggle is (of course!) based on a blog, the neatly named WTF Is Up With My Love Life?! which Massa, a 29-year-old New Yorker, wrote with her friend Rebecca Wiegand. Their aim? To try to understand what’s going on between men and women (she admits it is terribly hetero-centric) in the brave new postdating world.

The first tenet of the book is that the days of dinner and drinks are over. But, Massa adds, women (especially, I’m guessing, those with a dating-related book to flog) need not despair.

For such formalities have been usurped by the “nondate”: “an ambiguous interaction, sometimes faceto-face and sometimes involving technology, that is not explicitly romantic but does not feel entirely platonic either”.

Essentially, Massa seems to mean pretty much any interaction with someone you might fancy after a few drinks. Chitchat at a party. The silly emails that get you through a dull day at the office (okay, every day at the office). The networking coffee with an attractive contact. You get the drift.

Well, duh. If I’d known it was that easy to say something book-worthy about finding a partner, I’d have got scribbling years ago.

Many single women who want to be otherwise have been “non-dating” for years.

But I have a bigger com-

Artist) techniques are variations, or warped versions, of the devices most men use - flirting, wit, boasting, dressing nicely - to convince girls they are not unworthy. But the aim of The Game seems to be conquest and revenge, not intimacy or even sexual pleasure.

Vocabulary is militarised and full of acronyms, while the “field names” chosen by the “players” are redolent of the nerdiness that still lies beneath: “Mystery”, “Style”, “Twotimer”, “Matador of Love”.

The Game isn’t just a seduction manual but a Bildungsroman, detailing Strauss’ journey from callow, awestruck admirer of the PUA’s, to player, to survivor, after the whole scene is rotted from within by its very nihilism. Guess what saves him? Yep: the right woman. None of us want to be out there really.

(the poor sod who “you know will text you back after that other guy blows you off”). The idea is that your Gaggle will help you find “the boyfriend prospect” by showing you that while the other men in your life may have roles to play, they’re not quite the person you are going to merge tax files with.

As it is written by a single woman in her late twenties, I suppose that I (a single woman in my twenties) am the target audience.

But it all feels a little too complicated, frankly. I don’t really understand why men need to be divided up into so many categories when “friends” and “boyfriends” would suffice.

I also don’t buy her line that “we all want to find incredible love”, when it’s perfectly clear that many folk are happy on their own. Although what they’d be doing reading a dating guide, I don’t know.

Still, it’s interesting that Massa partially contradicts that other relationship bible, He’s Just Not That Into You, which suggests that every half-hearted reaction from a man (an email rather than a call, say) means he’s not keen enough and so not worth the time. In Massa-world, that may simply mean he’s a romantic work in progress. Or that he’s indulging in some “techno-romance” - the “rampant use of technologies to cultivate and explore romantic, sexual and flirtatious interactions and even relationships”.

The Gaggle is packed with silly expressions, generalisations and clichés about the sexes. I’m sure it will sell brilliantly. And you could probably do worse than follow Massa’s advice, though; I hear The Bachelor is auditioning for a third series.

NC

RU

These days, the battle of the sexes lies between the book covers. As Rosamund Urwin reads the latest bag-a-man manual, Nick Curtis studies the pick-up artist handbook which even celebrities are using to raise their game plaint here. Ninety-nine per cent of the time a silly email (and God, I send a few) or a bit of drunken party chat is just badinage - a welcome distraction from penning a piece about a poorly written dating book, say.

Now Massa

has ruined it by suggesting it might really mean “I’m getting a tattoo of our entwined initials on my bikini line”.

So on, grudgingly, to the book’s second great claim - and where the title comes in. Rather than women fretting about whether every man they meet is The One, Massa says, they should embrace their “Gaggle”: the group of men “many of whom you are not explicitly romantically involved

with - who play different roles, fulfil different needs, and help you to figure out who you are, what you want, and what kind of relationship you ultimately desire”.

Massa seems to love a generalisation, so men in the Gaggle are put in 10 boxes.

(In the name of equality, she makes rash generalisations about women too: apparently we sit around with our female friends “wildeyed, phone in hand, crazi-

ly begging each and every one of them to explain ‘What does this text message meeean???’ which, just for the sake of female dignity, I would like to stress that we don’t.)

Her male archetypes include the ex-boyfriend who’s still around, the hot sex prospect, the accessory, the guy who just blew you off and the ego-booster

Did ladies’ man Harry Styles use The Game to pull Caggie Dunlop?

I’ve been with my wife Ann for 17 years, and we both mourn Nora Ephron for a single line in When Harry Met Sally. It’s when Marie (Carrie Fisher), horrified at the travails of their single friends, turns to husband Jess (Bruno Kirby) and says: “Promise me I’ll never be out there again.”

This came back to me on reading Neil Strauss’s 2005 bestseller The Game, a supposedly foolproof guide to seduction, and the male archetype of The Gaggle.

Squelch your way through its 500 sticky pages and you can pull any woman, apparently. Olly Murs gave a copy to One Direction’s Harry Styles, triggering his blitzkrieg on the loins of the UK’s females, from Caroline Flack to Caggie Dunlop. Well, yippee for him. Me, I hope I’m never out there again.

The method that Strauss learned at the groins of

several self-proclaimed experts is a mixture of neuro-linguistic programming, psychological disorientation, and bullying. To seduce a woman in a bar or club, you need to bust into her social group, defuse any alpha males, lower her selfesteem by “negging” her (a comment on her appearance that is neither positive or negative) and basically con her into wanting you.

Some more extreme practitioners “project animalistic sexuality and escalate physical contact until the woman stops them”. Or “commit assault”, as it is known in law. To illustrate how easy it is to bed even the hottest, richest girls, Strauss shows how these techniques worked to a greater or lesser degree on Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Courtney Love and a Playboy Playmate of the Year.

Most of the PUA (Pick-up

Harry Styles

20

SUNDAY MAIL

Lifestyle The cover of Blur’s The Best Of album

CARTOON Julien Opie at the Lisson Gallery

ULIAN Opie, a complicated man who makes deceptively simple works of art, is showing me around his Old Street studio. “This is Diane von Furstenberg,” he says, pointing to a splendid likeness of the fashion designer, 10ft tall and sporting, of course, a wrap dress, picked out with pin-sharp detail; her face, however, is no more than a bubble. “And

J

the studio, elegantly posed in her best clothes, her head a cryptic white circle. “It costs £25,000 to be my model for the day,” he explains. Now my face also resembles a shocked white bubble. “And then you can buy whatever work comes out of that day for the usual price - about £45,000 for a work this size.”

Well, I suppose it isn’t much more than Van Dyck charged in his day. You can see why

He makes people look ‘their best’. ‘Why not? I certainly set about trying to make people look their best because I want the picture to look good’ this is Felicia, she’s married to a banker,” he continues.

Felicia is also bubble-headed and clad in evening dress and jewels, standing beside a neoclassical column. Another wealthy woman, Ika, looks on blankly from across

the super-rich want to sit for him. At 53, he makes work that’s instantly recognisable; groovy yet establishment. He trained at Goldsmiths under Michael Craig-Martin, where the YBAs hatched five years later; he’s forever associ-

Opie with his wife Aniela and daughter Elena

Caterine Dancing Pink ated with Brit Pop after he painted Blur as a Warholian quad for their Best Of album; he’s owned by the Tate and the National Portrait Gallery and MoMA in New York; he’s commissioned to make public art all over the world and collected by loaded local councils and the City of London - his sculptures of Caterina Dancing Naked leap in the shadow of the Gherkin.

His smooth, idealised likenesses are somehow of their time; very Noughties. He would have done a wonderful Teflon Tony.

He makes people look “their best”. “Why not? I certainly set about trying to make people look their best because I want the picture to look good.” But doesn’t that mean his portraits have nothing to say about age and experience? No soul? He smiles wryly. “You could do a promo and say, ‘I can knock at least five to ten years off anyone.’”

The oligarchs’ wives will be queuing up. It’s probably better than sitting for the Chapman brothers and getting a penis for a nose.

In person, Opie has no sharp edges - his voice is classless, his face blankly handsome.

He’s the son of a socialist whose sitters are and oligarchs; he admires manga porn but of four; he charges £70,000 a picture but a Julian Opie’s portraits may be simple but d anything but, says Hermione Eyre I’m not sure I’d recognise him if I saw him again. He’s personable, enthusiastic and seems fulfilled. This could be because of Aniela, whom he married recently; they have a six-year-old son, Paul, and she models for him “for hours on end” - the result being several uxorious life-size sculptures of her posing with a towel, inspired by Aphrodite. He talks happily about their home life with his three other children, Elena, 19, Imi, 16, and Padmini, nine, as well as their cats, Gainsborough and Reynolds, and a guinea

pig Aniela gave him for Valentine’s Day, called Humphrey.

But what’s this in his attic?

He shows me upstairs into a high-ceilinged room above his studio where he keeps his treasures: a late Egyptian funerary mask, a framed, prominent black and white photograph of his late mother, and paintings by the 17th- and 18th-century mid-ranking masters Cornelius Johnson and John Vanderbank, purchased from the dealer Philip Mould. “I can’t afford 15 Van Dycks, but these are my… amusements.” There’s also a

wall of cartoon smut. “These are pornographic 1980s Manga images,” he says. If they once excited him, they don’t appear to any more. “They’re here because there’s nowhere else to put them - school kids come round everywhere else.

But you can see how the shading on these faces has informed the way I do shading in my work.” With disquieting detachment, he gestures to a pair of heaving breasts with a nipple ring, and starts talking, deadpan, about the technique, the shadows…

He once went around Lon-

21 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

special report

Summer Food & Drink A taste of summer When on holiday the food and drink consumed will often be among the most memorable things of your stay. Maria Socratous on some stand out meals

Tapas

t’s amazing how a trip to the fruit market can make such an impression on the unsuspecting shopper. The sight of flattened looking peaches was enough to bring back memories of my first trip to Madrid a few years ago.

I

ferent level, not just a party drink to get tourists drunk.

The accompanying tapas bore no resemblance to the local Cypriot meze, which is often too heavy. Tapas are tiny portions of a great range of appetisers which are not meant to satisfy your hunger

Madrid’s Plaza Mayor

The white-flesh flat peach, which the Spaniards call Paraguaya and is also known as doughnut peach, is sweet and very juicy Cochinillo Asado

The white-flesh flat peach, which the Spaniards call Paraguaya and is also known as doughnut peach, is sweet and very juicy and has the most delicate aroma, which makes it very hard to resist and even harder to forget.

Whether as a snack or after a meal, a Paraguaya is delicious. This strange looking fruit can add to any meal or drink. I recall one starry evening sipping sangria in the ever buzzing Plaza Mayor, the flavour of the tiny peach pieces nicely infused into the drink and with a sprinkle of cinnamon the sangria was taken to a dif-

but merely to tantalise your taste buds. The calamares – fried baby squid - was a big success as was the tortilla de patatas – a type of thick potato and onion omelette cut in small squares. Jamón Serrano – the equivalent of the delicate Italian prosciutto and not so refined Cyprus chiromeri - teamed up nicely with pieces of bread dipped in olive oil and a bite of Queso con Membrillo (Manchego, a hard cheese) and quince paste. Seasoned green olives are always present with drinks and seafood, such as

TURN TO PAGE 28

Paraguaya or doughnut peach

22

Summer Food & Drink

July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Feast and family Iranian comedian Shappi Khorsandi grew up in Britain but thanks to her parents’ nightly banquets she missed out on none of her culinary heritage. Now she’s learning to cook perfect Persian dinners for her own son “HOW come you don’t eat like that at our house?” I ask my four-year-old son as he eagerly wolfs down his kebab digi (pan-fried kebabs with rice and yoghurt) at my parents’ house. “Because I like Iranian food, I don’t like your food,” he says, meaning sausage and mash. I suppose, at four, he is a little too young to be subjected to a rant about working single mums not having the time to diligently chop mounds of herbs, shell walnuts, stone dates and stand over their Persian rice until it is cooked to fluffy perfection. Or to pound ground lamb with turmeric, mint and yoghurt, as my dad does.

I would like to say for the record, I give my son perfectly good food. Fish fingers are healthy if served with peas (even if they are eaten with the promise of a muffin afterwards). I feel pangs of guilt, however, when I realise my son is a fussy eater only when presented with

my bland platefuls of ‘this’ll do’ which are not a patch on his grandmother’s lovingly made stews with dried lime and herbs.

Growing up, my older brother Peyvand and I had friends, twins called James and Paul, who would come round to our house to play.

The boys found pita breads so fascinating that they ate them without any topping – this was well before pita became a supermarket staple.

“Wow, this is bread? Yum.” They loved my mother’s feasts. There were no fish fingers at our house, only slowcooked lamb and aubergine, tender chicken with sweetened barberries, and rice so delicious you could eat it by itself with just a dollop of cucumber and mint yoghurt.

Nowadays in London you can get all the ingredients for Persian cooking from the myriad Iranian and Middle Eastern shops; in the old days, though, aunts and uncles would visit from Iran

a ases with gigantic suitcases r rom full of everything from riied flat breads and dried a ate herbs to pomegranate paste. i ite Iranian food is quite e et, a well-kept secret, k ke and it does take i some prep. There is g g, endless chopping, stirring and chant-ing to be done..

Alright, maybe I made the chanting bit up but when a dish is made properly from scratch – such as fesenjoon, u and ut a rich ground walnut c ce with pomegranate sauce nd to love duck that Brits tend – it is so heavenly that it’s me hocuseasy to assume some pocus must go into its making.

For Iranians the world over, the home is a veritable hub of social life. Ours was, anyway. Back in the Eighties my parents, who arrived in the UK in 1976 but ended up staying for political reasons

21 Ellados Street - Paphos Tel: 26 932123

Fresh & Frozen Meat Frozen Fish Delicatessen Pickles & Spices.

Home-made relishes and jams Fresh homemade pies Kolios Wines

Shappi Khorsandi and (inset) with her brother and parents in Brighton in the 1980s

(no, really), invited friends for a dinner pretty much every other night. Exiles like to make sense of being in exile and for us this meant copious amounts of food and sub-zero vodka, which Iranian kebabs are designed for. Iranians say ‘come for dinner’ as easily as Brits say ‘fancy a pint’? Even today my father frequently springs

surp prise dinsurprise gues on g ner guests moth m my mother; it d literally lit could someone he

be met yesterday.

I regret not standing by my mother’s side and learning to cook as she did with her own mother. Endlessly cooking for hordes of people was not a skill I wished to acquire. Now, though, for the sake of my aubergine-loving son, I have started. Spatula in hand I am

on the phone to my mother discussing quantities of cinnamon and whether turmeric will do instead of saffron (the answer to this is always a horrified “No!”). I am getting quite good. I make lamb shank with dill and broad bean rice which my son devours without even enquiring about pudding. I still keep a few packets of fish fingers in the freezer for emergencies – you know, in case I have an unexpected guest.

Kolios Butchery celebrates one year of business IF YOU have not had the chance to visit Kolios butchery in Paphos, it is definitely worth a visit - the shop is immaculate, offering a wide range of frozen meat and fish at very reasonable prices.

The Delicatessen offers a large variety of local and imported cheeses and cold meats, in addition to Kolios’ homemade pies, dips, sauces, relishes, jams and spices.

Let us not forget that you can also pick up the now well-known Kolios wines. Kolios Winery was founded in 1999 and is the only winery on the island that offers such an array of wines and services.

The range of wines produced by Kolios are among the best on the market.

Pop into Kolios for all your needs, you won’t be disappointed!

Kolios butchery and winery 21 Leoforos Ellados Avenue, Paphos, Tel: 26 932123

23 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Summer Food & Drink

The tastes of summer Dipal Acharya samples the best new foodie hotspots in the Mediterranean this summer East is East The stunning Porto Montenegro development in this tiny Balkan state continues to draw in the smart set thanks to its high-fashion boutiques, mega-marina and, most recently, Mitsu –

the country’s first authentic Japanese restaurant. Sample head chef Mitsuteru Arai’s famous nigiri washed down with a sake. If you’re craving something more local, pop into the nearby Bonella Centre, which dishes up tradi-

Cap Rocat

tional Montenegrin pastries, cakes and fresh fruit juices. (portomontenegro.com) Chef’s Cap Learn to rustle up a Spanish feast under the tutelage of Victor Garcia, head chef

In addition to the 127 rooms, there’s a Mediterranean restaurant headed up by Michelin-starred chef Alain Senderens, whose signature dishes include Mama octopus stew served with cuttlefish-ink rice, and foie gras terrine. For those with a sweet tooth, the puddings are a must. (mamashelter.com) at Mallorca’s Cap Rocat hotel, a converted former naval fortress just outside Palma.

Students begin the day by accompanying Victor to the local market to select the best seasonal produce, before donning their pinnies in the hotel kitchen to cook classic Mediterranean dishes such as paella and sautéed squid. (caprocat.com)

Porto Montenegro

Ibiza Town

Mama Shelter

Food like Mama makes The newly opened Mama Shelter in Marseille is the follow-up to the popular Paris original. Designed by Philippe Starck, it’s as slick and bonkers as you’d expect.

Ciao Balearic If you like your clubbing with a side of Italian chic, then Ibiza is the place for you this summer. Cipriani, that global outpost of the original Harry’s Bar in Venice, has finally thrown open its doors at the Ibiza Gran Hotel in Ibiza Town. Set over two floors with views across the harbour, you can ogle superyachts as you wind your spaghetti, from the comfort of the terrace, or a blue velvet banquette indoors. The food is classic Italian, such as tagliani with Parma ham, the house speciality. (cipriani.com)

Lebanese Restaurant Welcome to Fanous, modern Lebanese dining with flair. Come experience the sensational food, superb wine menu and evening live entertainment.

Culturally, music and dance play an important part of the Lebanese lifestyle. At Fanous, we express and celebrate this through our evening live entertainment. Fanous offers the excellent selections of celebrated Lebanese cuisine, fine wine and exquisite cocktails, but also the beautiful culture-infused atmosphere for a one of a kind dining experience complemented by the evening live entertainment including the famous belly dancing performances.

The Restaurant as a stylish and contemporary Arabic restaurant, Fanous is one of the most exciting and thriving in the Nicosia restaurant scene.

We offer our guest the ideal combination of comfort and Arabic Charm.

Whether you love juicy chicken or mouthwatering lamb that falls off the bone Fanous is the place for you. Our expert chef creates modern Lebanese culinary masterpieces with a twist of the Mediterranean.

Come to Fanous to experience food like you’re never known before.

Come and be dazzled by taste, sight and sound Fanous Lebanese Restaurante Email: info@fanous.eu Tel: +357 22-666663 7C Solonos Street, Nicosia - Cyprus

24 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Summer Food & Drink

Spice up any packed lunch

By Rachel Khoo

Get away in the old town, experience absolute pleasure at Phaneromenis Cometo toenjoy enjoyaafree natural FREE Come natural cakecake with with MARLENKA MARLENKA CoffCoff ee.ee.

MARLENKA Coffee is 100% Arabica made of Guatemala & Brazil beans, an absolute pleasure combina on with MARLENKA Natural cakes made of honey and walnuts or milk and cacao.

We are a European style coffee shop and that’s why we can’t afford NOT to serve you chilled dra Czech beers, Pilsner, Kozel and many more…

MARLENKA Café invites you for Friday and Saturday open grill events, serving grilled Czech sausages, steaks and grilled brie with cranberry sauce.

Enjoy MARLENKA Café luxurious atmosphere in the shade of the historical streets of Nicosia.

MARLENKA Café exclusive DRAFT BEER

MARLENKA Café Phaneromenis str. 92-94, Nicosia Contact 7000 11 29, marlenka.cyprus@gmail.com

A GOOD pickle is the culinary equivalent of a good accessory: a bright, bold adornment that, however small, still packs a punch. I challenge anyone to find a savoury dish that can’t be complemented by a pickle.

It’s far from just a convenient storage solution for gluts of seasonal fruit and veg.

I am a fully fledged picnic lover. I embrace any opportunity to fill my hamper and disappear to my local park in Paris, the Buttes Chaumont, for some al fresco eating. Growing up in London, we would grab roast chicken sandwiches and spend the afternoon in Greenwich Park. When I later moved to north London, I laid my rug on Primrose Hill; London’s jagged skyline and some good grub was my ultimate indulgence.

My experience as a veteran picnicker has taught me that pickles always make an excellent addition to the hamper. Their crisp acidity elevates any cold meat or cheese, they fit snugly into pretty Kilner jars and they are utterly moreish.

The master pickle mixture 150ml malt vinegar 300ml water 75g caster sugar good pinch of salt

Red Onion Pickle 300g small red onions, peeled and sliced 1/2 tsp juniper berries 1/2 tsp black peppercorns

• Combine all the ingredients. Makes enough for three jars.

• Leave the onions in cool water for 10 minutes before adding to the jar with the berries and peppercorns.

Pour the pickling liquid over the top.

Cucumber and Melon Pickle 1/4 cantaloupe melon, cut into 4mm slices then halved 1/3 cucumber, cut into 3mm slices 1 tsp mustard seeds 2 tbsp roughly chopped dill Place all the ingredients in a 500ml jar. Pour the cool pickling liquid over the top.

Eat within two days.

Asparagus Pickle 300g fine asparagus • Snap the tough stems off the asparagus, and cut in half. Blanch for 1 minute in boiling water. Drain and add to the preserving jar. Pour the pickling liquid over the top.

‘Dial a picnic’ at Gina’s Place PICNIC began life as a 17th century French word. It was likely invented by joining the verb ‘piquer’ (meaning to pick or peck) with rhyming ‘nique’ which means ‘of little importance.’

That’s one of the wonderful things about Gina’s Place. There are so many wonderful goodies to ‘pick’ from.

For over 12 years, her customers have been

taking platters, sandwiches, salads, pies and desserts home for picnics or entertaining.

“Whenever I went on picnics I wanted to enjoy my food fresh and cool, and wine chilled and, to remain that way until I went home!” she emphasised.

So now her deli-delights are presented in ermal picbeautiful, easy-to-carry thermal g cutlery, nic hampers incorporating sses and crockery, condiments, glasses that indispensable wine bottle luded a opener! She has also included few ‘quirky’ gadgets. “I was alen when ways spilling my wine even I attempted to place it safely in the sand or on the grass.. What a hese wine waste! So I have found these glass holders that you push into the ground, almost like a stake. le bottle Brilliant idea, also a simple s, to give and four wine glass carriers, you that ‘being waited on’ feeling. A job for the men!”

Gina has created five themed choices for her hampers, to make life easier when deciding what to take with you. ection COUNTRYSIDE - A selection e Pork of Farmers’ favourites like Pies, Stilton, Cheddar, ham, ider, pate, salads, bread, cider, pple shandy and homemade apple lemonade. lled BEACHCOMBER - Chilled aps, tailed prawns, Tuna Wraps, ggs, Mackerel Pate, Scotch Eggs,

Sausage rolls and a selection of mini sandwiches, not forgetting the chilled Pinot Grigio Blush!

GOURMET - This gives the foody lover the chan chance to try our platters of hams, chee cheeses and salamis, anti-pasti nibbl nibbles and dips, stuffed breads. Iced G Gazpacho soup, with a selection of breads. Delicious.

CELEBRAT CELEBRATION- Any special occasion such a as the opera, theatre, anniversaries etc. Chilled French Champagne, Smoked Salmon in bagels with cream cheese, Verdi Salad, mini q quiche.

CYPRUS M MINI MEZE - This would be id ideal for the holiday maker who would enjoy a taste of assorted dips, Dolmades, Halloumi, Lou Lounza, Salad, Olives, Fresh fruit fruits and yoghurt, not forgetting that glass of cold KEO beer beer!

This will g give you a few and you can choices a add more if you pop always a (opposite into the shop s Papantoniou) Chlorakas.

Papanto further information For furth 938017 Tel: 26 9

25 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Summer Food & Drink

A temple to taste O U S TA KA L L I S Restaurant & Tavern, established in 1997, is situated in the heart of Polis square and is run by the man with the big moustache and his son Andreas.

The restaurant has built a reputation for excellent personal touch, good service and for traditional Cypriot home-cooked food, specialising in fresh local meat and fish (what else can you

M

many unusual creations that blend complex flavours and aromas with presentation designed to emphasise textures, shapes and colours.

The restaurant offers pork, chicken and lamb souvla every Saturday, with exceptionally reasonable prices of €10 - €12 per head.

Another specialty of the tavern is Kleftiko (lamb) slow cooked in a clay oven, which is available daily.

Moustakallis Restaurant is

Another specialty of the tavern is Kleftiko (lamb) slow cooked in a clay oven, which is available daily expect since Moustakallis is also the butcher in town).

Elegant dining in a casual, intimate atmosphere featuring great service, the best Cyprus and international food. A temple to taste. A shrine to freshness and quality. The food at Moustakallis Restaurant & Tavern is infused with Mediterranean nuance. It is exciting, seductive, a thrill for the senses.

Combining local ingredients with techniques and foods from around the world, the dynamic menu features

one of the few dining areas in the region that is accessible to wheelchairs, tables are lifted so that disabled customers can enjoy their meal comfortably.

Visit Moustakallis Restaurant for excellent food at reasonable prices.

Moustakallis Restaurant Polis Chrysochous. Tel: 26 322883, Fax: 26 322707, email: moustaka@cylink. com.cy

26

Summer Food & Drink

July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

27 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Summer Food & Drink

Appreciate the good things in life at La Brezza Italian fusion restaurant I F RESTAURANTS must have a concept then La Brezza is about appreciating the good things in life - good food, good wine and ambient music in a truly Mediterranean setting that stimulates the senses. Hidden inside the Crowne Plaza Limassol, La Brezza is this summer’s best kept culinary secret - until now!

Tasty Food The cuisine is authentic Italian with a twist, comprising of dishes you would expect to ďŹ nd at an Italian restaurant, but with a distinctive cosmopolitan spice usually cut fresh from the chef’s garden. The menu is select, offering a variety of exciting and tasty dishes without being over-burdened by too many choices and fantastic combinations!

The salads are fun and fresh,

section entirely to themselves! We physically could not try them all in one go, but the few desserts we did try left us wanting more. The Crispy Apple Cake is unlike any apple dessert you have ever tried before. The ap-

Overlooking a yacht-speckled bay, La Brezza’s flower-bordered terrace possesses a truly majestic view of the Olympic coastline all the way to Akrotiri the Prawn Risotto with lemon zest is wonderfully light and summery and the Fillet Steak in Balsamic Reduction cooked to perfection.

And, if all else fails (which certainly won’t be the case!) one can always look forward to the weekly specials.

Delightful Desserts Strictly speaking still food, but the desserts deserve a

ple is seared in a light caramel sauce with raisins and a hint of cinnamon and served with a scoop of MĂśvenpick Vanilla Dream ice-cream.

The crème brÝlÊe is infused with Amaretto and the Coffee Ice-Parfait is made with a shot of freshly-brewed espresso and served with mocha beans. Next time - and there most certainly will be a next time - we are going

Authentic Italian with a twist

all out and trying the Trio of Chocolate Delights...

Unique Ambiance Overlooking a yachtspeckled bay, La Brezza’s ower-bordered terrace possesses a truly majestic view of the Olympic coastline all the way to Akrotiri, illuminated by glimmering star-lights and city-lights.

The restaurant itself is almost entirely surrounded by water imbuing the whole experience with an aura of calm and relaxation as you are invited to sit back and enjoy the view. However, every evening at La Brezza has a distinctly unique character as the line-up of musicians add their own avour to the mix. From romantic ballads played on the violin on Mondays to the more upbeat Latin rhythms of DJ Havana on Sundays, diners can really make a night out of it, combining delicious food with great music and the perfect location. But the best advice would probably be to visit La Brezza and let the restaurant speak for itself...

!

"

#

$ %

&

Crowne Plaza Limassol I T: 99 304133

28 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Summer Food & Drink Preparing the pastilla in Morocco

A proper fry up was available and you could also sample the traditional bugatza in different variations, sweet and savoury

Eat, drink and enjoy the view

A taste of summer Continued from page 21 fresh anchovies in vinegar, mussels in breadcrumbs or marinated clams, which add a gourmet touch to tapas.

Just north of Madrid in a place called Segovia we enjoyed Cochinillo Asado, roast suckling pig, feet included, with a crisp, fatty outside that is perfect for those who like pork rind,

while the meat was tender and juicy on the inside. Great for meat eaters but caution needed if you don’t want to scare young children.

More recently in Cassandra-Chalkidiki, north-east Greece, we enjoyed an action-packed few days. The landscape is quite breathtaking as the area is quite hilly and lush in vegetation and combines narrow strips

of land covered in pine trees that run into the sea. Most days the day would start with an active swim very early in the morning followed by a scrumptious breakfast at Ammos Restaurant. The food display was amazing and it was up to you how healthy you wanted it to be.

One of the food stations was packed with seasonal fruit while fresh Greek yoghurt

San Francisco outlet defies California’s foie gras ban

By Laird Harrison HOUSED in a converted infantry barracks on a former US Army base, the Presidio Social Club never attracted much attention from San Francisco’s avid gourmets - until last Saturday night.

That’s when foie gras lovers descended on the restaurant to have their first taste of the delicacy since California imposed a ban on July 1.

Animal rights activists fought for the law because they detest the way foie gras is made: farmers force-feed ducks or geese to fatten their livers. Some fans of traditional French cuisine find the ban just as hard to swallow.

The restaurant owner, Ray Tang, and its general manager, Maureen Donegan, reasoned that the restaurant can legally ignore state law because the Presidio, now managed mostly as a national park, has remained federal property even after being decommissioned by the Army. Businesses on federal property must adhere to federal regulations, which trump state ones, they say.

Tang and Donegan timed their event for Bastille Day – the French national day - hired a publicist and sent out a press release.

“There are a lot of people who are upset about not being able to do something they have a right to do,

so we just decided to go ahead and do it,” Donegan said. “The next step was to celebrate independence.”

By Saturday the drab clapboard building was on the map as never before, with diners claiming every one of its 117 seats, a dozen activists chanting outside and park service police – some of them on horseback - struggling to make sure the two groups didn’t clash.

“Helpless ducks are force-fed,” the protesters chanted. “Eat somewhere else instead.”

HUMANE Tang says the restaurant is getting its foie gras from a humane source in New York’s Hudson Valley.

“Birds of that type naturally gorge themselves,” he said. “I do not believe they suffer.”

The restaurant planned to continue serving foie gras, Donegan said.

Protestors reject Tang’s legal reasoning along with his ethics and have asked the federal agency managing the park, the Presidio Trust, to enforce the state ban.

The trust has yet to state its legal position. Executive Director Craig Middleton issued a statement: “I met with Mr Tang on Wednesday and encouraged him to reconsider his decision” but did not say what would happen if Tang kept serving foie gras.

Enforcement of the foie

gras law in San Francisco falls to the Animal Care and Control Department, and its director, Rebecca Katz, was unsure what authority she had in the Presidio.

“It’s not an unusual question to raise,” Katz said, citing an ongoing dispute about dog leash laws in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

The state attorney general’s office also withheld opinion. “We have not looked into it,” spokeswoman Lynda Gledhill said.

Others have tried to work around the ban. Fifty kilometres away in Mountain View, California, Chez TJ restaurant was serving foie gras without listing it on the menu.

“It’s given away by the chef as a complimentary gift at his discretion,” said General Manager Jessamine McLellan, noting that the law bans the sale and production - but not the possession or consumption - of foie gras.

Back at the Presidio Social Club - which, contrary to its name, is a public restaurant with no membership – diners figured they would enjoy their loophole as long as it lasted. Tang ordered enough foie gras for 560 57gramservings.

“It’s stunning,” said Greg Pelling, 52, who was enjoying a $20 plate of foie gras sliders. “The pineapple adds a slight acidity, and paired with the sauterne (wine), it’s amazing.”

came in ceramic bowls that you could top up with pistachios, almonds and walnuts and drizzle liberally with locally produced thyme honey.

A proper fry up was available and you could also sample the traditional bugatza in different variations, sweet and savoury.

After a day working off such a large breakfast, a stop at Bousoulas white-washed beach bar perched on the hills overlooking the sea was

called for, but it was hard to chose between an energising juice from carrot, apple and orange or a well chilled beer. A bike ride to the marina before dinner was the excuse needed for dining at the different tavernas and restaurants. Psaroyiannos fish tavern is famous for its grilled octopus, which was tender and fresh and almost as tasty as the axnistos gavros, fresh steamed anchovies.

While we enjoyed the best the Mediterranean had to offer, a friend swears by everything Moroccan, the people, landscape, culture, local cuisine, you name it. It is true that there is a degree of mystery surrounding the country and its cuisine in particular as we are not yet familiar with our neighbour’s culinary dishes. The jewel of Moroccan cuisine is not the fairly well known couscous or tagine dishes but the pastilla, a delicately aromatic savoury pie made with filo pastry and filled with finely chopped pigeon, parsley and almonds and topped with a generous dusting of icing sugar and cinnamon.

Of course the meal is accompanied with the traditional fresh mint tea and then followed by corne de gazelle – a crescent-shaped sweet made from almonds and orange blossom water.

Just the thing to get us out of our comfort zone.

29 2 9

L • July 22, 2012

N HERO Juliam Opie with an earlier work

Opie grew up in Oxford, exploring the Ashmolean and staring at the outsize heads in front of the Sheldonian Theatre

bankers’ wives, rock stars t is a happily married father lso runs an online shop don’t be fooled - the man is don checking out pole dancers only because he wanted to draw a figure in motion that was “dynamic”, of course.

There was also work such as This Is Kiera, in which Kiera amounted to nothing more than the outline of two pert buttocks. But that phase is long gone. Being happily married has calmed him. “I don’t hang out with anyone except my family, really. I’ve never understood parties. Far too noisy and you end up feeling bloated. I don’t get it.”

Opie grew up in Oxford, exploring the Ashmolean and

staring at the outsize heads in front of the Sheldonian Theatre. From the age of 11 he drew “every day, after school”. Making art became “like a diary, a way of dealing with the world. Otherwise I feel you’re locked here, behind your eyes.” Opie’s father taught economics at New College and was “a big socialist. When I wanted to go to art school, he threw a fit, but Mum supported me.”

She was an artist herself in her spare time, and had always wanted to go to art school. Luckily, Julian’s elder

brother went into politics, becoming a trades unionist: “so that satisfied my dad and in a way it was my mum’s turn. My father was not a rich man by any means, not good at making investments. He worried about how I’d make a living but in the end it was OK, I’ve never struggled.”

He’s modest - he’s been a great success. It’s ironic, perhaps, that the son of “a devout socialist, who had mixed feelings about bankers” should be so popular with plutocrats, so at home with the commercial side of being an artist. He recently designed a window display for Hermès in Sydney, for example; he has a prestigious solo show about to open at the Lisson Gallery, and he has also set up a Julian Opie shop online, selling everything from old exhibition invitations to mugs. “I haven’t opened a web shop just to be egalitarian - that would be patronising. I do it for fun and because there are some things I want to try out. I’m certainly not snooty.”

Opie’s work has always aspired to the simplicity of a lavatory sign. An early dream was to represent a person with the instant economy of a motorway sign, “recognisable at 80 miles an hour”. “Ten years ago I went and bought a male and female lavatory sign, and super-imposed pictures of people I knew over

it. I was imagining what it would be like to produce a lavatory sign for every single individual, not just men and women. And then I started doing that for faces… A logo for everyone in the world.”

But some people won’t be turned into Julian Opies. “I tend to find people with good bone structure and simple hair. It’s about what you can deal with. I couldn’t deal with freckles for a long time. They were too small for the system I was working with. Then there was a time I was working with a system that could deal with freckles, or at least, moles… Maybe one day I’ll be able to deal with complicated hair,” he says wistfully.

“Bland” is a recurring critical put-down. Opie’s images of Bryan Adams in rock-star poses, accompanied at the show by speakers playing his guitar riffs, caused the Evening Standard’s critic,

Hanging his latest exhibition

Nick Hackworth, to exclaim, “Despair!

The mundane apocalypse is at hand.”

“I’m always amazed by how much resistance I get,” Opie says ruefully. Does he feel persecuted?

“Sometimes.

You put so much effort into an exhibition, it’s not like you’re forcing anyone to go to it - and you get such a hard time!”

He’s always been a techhead, into computer games and LED technology, and he uses animation to create a classic paradox, the moving still life (Apple Tree.) - for example, blossom that shakes lightly in the wind. He shows me a print by the 19th-century Japanese woodblock artist Hiroshige. “You can’t help but think that, if he’d had an LED screen, he’d have got some of the figures in his work moving, the snowflakes falling…”

He also creates slightly

creepy on-screen portraits that blink. “It’s such a tiny movement, but it’s the difference between life and death, and it gives you a completely different relationship with the object you’re looking at.”

Aware that his diodes might burn out in the long term, he’d like to set up an Opie Foundation for the preservation of the works, “If I’m rich enough.”

I didn’t expect to warm to Opie, but I did. I think turning people into beautiful squiggles is, to him, part of being in love with the world.

“Sometimes when I’m on the Tube, looking at a row of people opposite me, I want to take them all back to the studio. I think everyone looks fantastic - the way they’ve put themselves together. I want to draw them. It’s like Charlie Brown says, ‘Humanity’s amazing. It’s people I can’t stand.’”

30 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Business & Jobs

Bank of England to inject £50bn into UK Economy

EU ruling offers better trade ties with China

AT July’s meeting, the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted to pump £50bn of extra stimulus into the economy.

The Bank said that although progress was made at the latest European Council, there are still concerns about debt levels in several EU countries. This is weighing on confidence and has hit some of the UK’s main export markets.

What is quantitative easing (QE)?

When interest rates are too low to be cut any more, a central bank can opt to pump money directly into the economy. Although QE is often described as ‘printing money’, the bank does not actually do this, rather it basically credits its own bank account.

It uses this money to buy financial assets such as government and corporate bonds. The institutions selling the assets then have new money in their accounts which they can lend to businesses and individuals. This boosts the money supply and should feed into the wider economy.

When the bank buys bonds, it reduces the supply in the economy and so increases the demand for new bonds. This makes it cheaper for businesses to borrow money for longer-term investments, as long-

By Robin Emmott and Ethan Bilby

Investment Bill Blevins Bill Blevins is Managing Director of Blevins Franks International. Tel: 26-912315 term interest rates also get pushed down.

How much QE has the Bank of England done?

The QE programme was first launched in March 2009 with an initial £75bn of asset purchases.

Later that year it expanded the programme to £200bn.

It announced a further £75bn of QE in October 2011, dubbed ‘QE2’.

This was expanded by £50bn in February 2012.

The latest round - ‘QE3 - takes the total to £375bn.“ Does QE work?

The Bank believes it does. A BoE report found that the first round had provided a “significant” benefit to growth and that gross domestic product had increased by between 1.5% and 2% as a result. While there is no way to quantify it, it is more than likely that the UK economy

would have been in worse, perhaps much worse, shape without QE. It does have it critics, with pension campaigners claiming it has contributed to company pension scheme deficits and has driven down annuity rates.

The BoE responded to this in May, with deputy governor Charlie Bean saying that since QE had raised share prices, it had a neutral impact on a pension fund.

Monetary Policy committee colleague David Miles also claimed that the end result of QE is more money in the wider economy. Sellers of government bonds tend to use some of the money they get from the BoE to purchase other assets, such as corporate bonds and shares. As demand for such assets increase so does their price.

That lowers longer-term borrowing costs, and encourages the issuance of new equities and bonds by firms.

Is anything different this time?

The QE programme will be working alongside other recently announced measures by the BoE and Treasury. A new Funding for Lending Scheme is about to be launched, and there are plans to ease liquidity regulations on banks. The BoE believes these measures, together with reduced pressure on house-

hold real incomes and the continued stimulus from past monetary policy actions, should “sustain a gradual strengthening of output growth”.

What about the Eurozone?

The European Central Bank (ECB) cut its key interest rate from 1% to 0.75% - a record low for the Eurozone. Its deposit rate was also cut from 0.25% to 0% to boost bank lending to the private sector.

It stopped short of increasing its €1 trillion funding facility for banks or launching a QE programme.

President Mario Draghi did however hint that the Bank has more weapons ready to help the Eurozone. “We still have all our artillery ready”, he said.

Blevins Franks specialises in providing personalised wealth management advice to British expatriates living here in Cyprus, and could help you review and plan your investments in the current economic climate.

For advice on an investment strategy designed around your objectives and circumstances, speak to an experienced wealth manager like Blevins Franks.

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

Ailing Nokia clings onto cash despite big loss

By Tarmo Virki AILING mobile maker Nokia turned in another thumping loss this week, as it tries to arrest a decline towards irrelevance in a smartphone market dominated by Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy models.

The company, which has been burning through money at a rate that would clean it out in a couple of years, managed, however, to cling on to more of its cash reserves in the second quarter than the market had feared, giving its battered shares an 18 per cent boost.

The shares had fallen around 80 per cent since February 2011 when the company announced its shift to the largely untried Microsoft Windows phone operating system.

Sales of its new Lumia phones, which run the Mi-

Currencies USD GBP CHF JPY AUD CAD SEK

crosoft software, doubled from a low base in the previous quarter, but have yet to grab share back from Apple and Samsung in the most profitable part of the mobile market.

Nokia reported a secondquarter net loss of 1.53 billion euros, or 8 euro cents a share when adjusted for oneoff items, compared with the market’s average forecast for a loss of 9 euro cents a share. It held net cash of 4.2 billion euros, compared with the market estimate of 3.7 billion, but still down from 4.9 billion at the end of the first quarter.

Details showed that advance royalty payments of 400 million euros accounted for most of the lower fall in its cash position.

“It’s partly the advanced royalties. Nevertheless, it was a positive move by management to calm down the market,” said Juha Varis,

20-July-2012

1,2225 0,7784 1,1961 95,99 1,1664 1,2232 8,4196

1,2298 0,7831 1,2057 96,76 1,1897 1,2477 8,5880

who holds Nokia shares as part of the Danske Invest Finnish Equity Fund.

But Varis said he was worried Nokia had placed all its bets on Windows Phone, which wasn’t yet showing it could help reverse Nokia’s fortunes.

Nokia sold 4 million Windows phones in the second quarter, still only a fraction of Apple’s expected sales of 30 million iPhones or Samsung’s 50 million smartphones.

“I think currently the company is too dependent on Microsoft,” Varis said.

“What happens if this marriage ends? We would prefer to have a second option to Windows.”

In the three months to June, all three major credit ratings agencies have cut Nokia bonds to ‘junk’, while the company warned twice on profits and said it planned to cut one in five jobs.

13-July-2012

1,2173 0,7887 1,1961 96,40 1,1885 1,2308 8,4793

1,2246 0,7934 1,2057 97,17 1,2123 1,2554 8,6489

Nokia had placed all its bets on Windows phones as it lags behind Apple and Samsung in the smartphone wars

06-July-2012

1,2347 0,7952 1,1965 98,52 1,1960 1,2447 8,5480

1,2421 0,8000 1,2061 99,31 1,2199 1,2696 8,7190

1wk 1mth 2mth 3mth 6mth 1yr

USD 0,20 0,25 0,34 0,45 0,73 1,06

EUR 0,06 0,12 0,20 0,34 0,64 0,98

GBP 0,54 0,57 0,64 0,79 1,07 1,56

CHF 0,01 0,03 0,05 0,07 0,17 0,38

THE highest EU court has cleared a Chinese chemicals company of accusations that Beijing was controlling its trade with Europe, in a victory for private Chinese firms who say they are unfairly labelled as subsidised agents of the Chinese government.

The lower General Court in Luxembourg ruled in 2009 that China’s Zhejiang Xinan Chemical Industrial Group was not guilty of dumping selling for unrealistic prices - chemicals on European markets.

The EU Court of Justice (ECJ) said this week it upheld that decision, turning down an appeal by the European Union’s 27 countries.

At the heart of the court decision was its finding that the company, known as Xinanchem, was free from state interference in running its business - even though the Chinese state is a minority shareholder.

The ECJ stood by the General Court ruling that “the control exercised by the Chinese state, as a minority shareholder, over Xinanchem cannot be equated, automatically, to significant state interference”, it said in a statement.

Efforts to deepen the relationship between the world’s biggest trading partners have been hampered by disputes over what European companies say is unfair competition, accusing Chinese firms of benefiting from illegal government subsidies.

Smoothing those difficulties could propel a wave of Chinese direct investment of up to $500 billion in fresh capital to Europe this decade, economists say. EU trade with China is likely to reach a record of 500 billion euros this year.

“The Court of Justice’s ruling reinforces the right for individual Chinese firms to get market economy treatment,” said Fredrik Erixon, director of the European Centre for International Political Economy, a Brusselsbased think-tank.

JPY 0,11 0,14 0,16 0,20 0,33 0,55

LIBOR RATES (London Interbank Borrowing Rates) AS AT 23/07/2012

CAD 1,03 1,10 1,20 1,30 1,56 2,04

AUD 3,67 3,78 3,87 3,98 4,22 4,55

31 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Business & Jobs

Best workforce money can’t buy Internships can be invaluable for both graduates and employers Five Reasons to Invite Interns

Comment Olga Kandinskaia APART from the discovery of natural gas, we haven’t heard positive economic news here in Cyprus for a good while. For the past two years, local companies have been challenged with deteriorating business conditions, which caused many of them to freeze or cut salaries, and in some cases even reduce staff and increase the workload on those who have kept their jobs. The morale of the existing employees is at the moment at its lowest level, which in turn negatively affects the business, creating a vicious circle. Is it possible that local companies are ignoring one good opportunity that the crisis has delivered?

With unemployment on the rise, many young people realise that their chances of getting a job will improve considerably if, apart from a degree, they can also acquire some work experience. So they seek internships. Many universities, colleges and business schools see internships as an important part of learning experience and help their students to find an appropriate placement with a company. The interests of both an intern and an educational institution are clear, but what about a company? Why does it make sense to encourage internships? In other words, how can an intern add value?

In countries like the US and the UK, internships are nothing unusual. In fact, ever since the financial crisis of 2008 has hit their economies, internships have been steadily on the rise. Promoted by universities and often supported by government, unpaid internships are an attractive proposition for businesses.

Companies in the US and the UK are making good use of such an opportunity, and here is why.

1. By using an intern you get a chance to test out new ideas with minimum or no cost. For example, an intern who is enrolled in a master’s business programme, like the MSc in management at the Cyprus International Institute of Management (CIIM), will collect for you valuable information about your customers and competitors, perform useful analysis and make relevant comparisons with similar projects elsewhere.

2.Interns may take a certain load off your regular employees, though it is important to maintain the right balance between creative tasks and routine duties. Internship should be a valuable educational experience for the intern.

3.Hosting an intern provides you with a pair of fresh eyes. Very often simple obvious things can make a difference, but over time we may lose the ability to notice them. In such a case a fresh opinion of an intern-outsider can be very helpful.

4.Interns may help you out with improving your company’s online presence, especially in social media. Most young people have advance experience in browsing internet.

Their advice on your web page and the Facebook presence shouldn’t be underestimated.

5.Finally, having an intern will be healthy for the overall mood of your employees since a typical intern is a young, enthusiastic individual who is keen to make a good impression. You will be pleasantly surprised to have this unexpected source of positive energy and optimism among your staff.

According to Robin Richards, the CEO of Internships.com, only 34 per cent of all internships are paid.

Interns may help you out with improving your company’s online presence The Fair Labour Standards Act (FLSA) of your business ideas and lift up the office the US lists specific criteria which determine spirit. Finding a steady source of well-edwhether an internship qualifies as an unpaid ucated interns by teaming up with such a one. The general idea is that the internship well-known business school as CIIM is one is a training experience (as opposed to just easy shortcut of how to start. performing certain routine tasks), and this experience is for the benefit of the intern. Dr Olga Kandinskaia is Assistant ProfesFurthermore, “the intern does not displace sor of Finance at the CIIM Business School regular employees, but works under close and Director of the MSc in Management supervision of existing staff. The employer Programme, olga@ciim.a.cy that provides the training derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern.”

Finally, there is a condition that the intern “is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship”. It does not mean that the company is not allowed to hire its interns later after the internClassroom Assistant Required ship is over. This in fact often happens. Instead, it means that unpaid internLittle Stars Montessori Nursery School in Nicosia ships generally should not be used by the employer as seeks experienced Classroom Assistant a trial period for individufor toddler classes. als seeking employment. If that is the case, the internship should be paid.

Only applicants with valid work permits need apply.

There is every indication that internships represent an excellent opportunity Please email CV to info@littlestars.com.cy for companies. Hosting interns will help you refresh

32 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Property LEGAL ISSUES WITH GEORGE COUCOUNIS

Development within the SBAs is restricted by a range of rules

Rights of purchaser on undivided plot THE division of a piece of land into various separate plots constitutes an important procedure which is subject to town-planning restrictions on the land, the requirements set by the law on immovable property and the approval of the Director of the Land Registry. Where the land is co-owned, the written consent of all is required until the completion of the division, as well as their agreement on the share each one will receive. The purchase of co-owned land or part of it which is to be divided does not constitute a secure transaction, since it is subject to the full completion of the division. Any such agreement is not legally enforceable until the division is made and in case does not happen, the agreement becomes void.

The rights of a purchaser are not perfected and cannot be ascertained since they are subject to the completion of the division and the issue of the separate title deed.

IMPOSSIBLE Where the division of a plot of land becomes impossible, the purchaser should expect nothing more than the return of his money and the cancellation of the sale contract from the Land Registry.

The issue is to be resolved through the application of the legal principle of a contingent contract and not through the doctrine of frustration. A contingent contract is a contract to do or not to do something, if some event, collateral to such contract, does or does not happen. Moreover, according to the law of contract, a contingent contract to do or not do anything if an uncertain future event happens cannot be enforced by law, unless and until that event has happened. If the event becomes impossible, such a contract becomes void. The Supreme Court in a recent judgment affirmed the decision of the District Court to resolve a dispute concerning the purchase of a share in co-owned land. A sales contract was entered into and signed by one of the co-owners with a pur-

chaser, containing a clause that in the event the division of the land and the issue of a separate title deed becomes impossible or the Director of the Land Registry refuses to give his consent, the agreement would have been void and the amount paid must be returned.

In the process of a local inquiry, one of the co-owners refused to sign the required documents from the Land Registry, withdrawing his consent for the division. Under the circumstances, the division of the land became impossible and the vendor informed the purchaser that, according to the above term, the contract became void and legally unenforceable. The purchaser did not accept the termination and requested the transfer of the share without success. The dispute ended up in the District Court which decided in favour of the vendor, issuing an order for the return of the deposit and the deletion of the sale contract from the Land Registry books. The Supreme Court upheld the aforesaid decision stating that the agreement depended on the division - an uncertain future event and in case the division became impossible, the agreement would have been void. As to whether the vendor took reasonable steps to make the division possible, the Court was of the opinion that the vendor as a co-owner did his best to persuade the other co-owners to consent. According to the Supreme Court, the District Court correctly dismissed the purchaser’s action, deciding that the vendor who received 1/10 of the sale price could not wait indefinitely, given the fact that the remaining balance of the purchase price carried no interest. The true intention of the parties was that the division of the land preceded its transfer to the purchaser.

George Coucounis is a lawyer specialising in the Immovable Property Law, based in Larnaca, Tel: 24 818288, coucounis.law@ cytanet.com.cy, www.coucounislaw.com

WHAT YOU GET FOR

Recurring SBA problems Give and take needed to stop problems getting out of hand

By Antonis Loizou FRICS THE SBA’s policy on development of land that falls within its boundary is currently somewhat confused, which over the years has created problems which are now surfacing.

As a general rule within the SBA there are no planning zones and the competent authority to issue any sort of permit is the SBA (which at times and depending on the case confers with the Republic’s local authorities). The general rule is that for a (simple) house development, the site must have access from a public road not less than four metres wide, the applicant must be a Cypriot coming from the same village, living there for some time, to use the property for his own use and provided he owns no other property capable of housing development. If not local, the applicant must have some form of long term “connection” with the SBA. So, the first confusion is, if an applicant gets the OK and builds his home, he may not be able to sell it (in the sense that the new buyer can live in it), unless he meets also the above prerequisites.

So, what is the value of the house?

SBAs were introduced on Cyprus’ independence in the year 1960. So small villages which fall within the SBA boundaries and have expanded and have taken up the land which was at the time (1960) zoned for development cannot expand further, causing property prices within the zoned area to increase, frustrating newcomers’ demand and causing the villages to “suffocate” in terms of land use.

€200,000

How much: €200,000 What you get: This three-bedroom, four-bathroom detached house in Sotira, Famagusta includes pool and covered parking space.

From: www.buysellcyprus.com, Tel: 26 200000

The problem was realised by the SBA who, after negotiating with the Cypriot authorities, have agreed that both should come up with an expansion plan for the concerned villages. This was one and a half years ago, but now it seems that the SBA has changed its mind. This has also had the effect of locals of taking action on their own and proceeding to build legally/illegally in the SBA, on most occasions with the tolerance of the SBA authorities. So, in the area south of the Limassol-Ypsonas road there are numerous building developments, ranging from factories and stores to houses, all provided with public roads and services – yet most without permits. The complaints of locals have started to surface with recent gatherings for the Phasouri area and the surrounding villages. There is even a law suit for damages against the British Government running to several millions, the outcome of which is as yet unknown.

Keeping our ear to the ground, we understand the affected villages are getting together to organise themselves into a pressure group. What a worrying development since with a little “give” the SBA could avert a situation that could turn into ugly scenes and cause ill feeling between the Bases and locals. It is best that the situation is revised, to an extent, as soon as possible.

The Cyprus government not wishing to enter into dispute with the British government, stipulates that these are sovereign based areas and as such it cannot do much.

We suggest the following (for those who want to listen to some form of

compromise).

Examine for each area/village the availability of development land and ascertain its need for expansion over a period of five years Establish town planning zones with the required type/use, density, coverage etc Restrict single house development to sites not exceeding 1,000m² so that land is not taken up by wealthy and others and exclude real estate development other than building plot divisions Sales/building permits of real estate to be restricted to existing or would be permanent residents, local or foreign/ EU members Isolated beach development to be allowed with respect to restaurants and entertainment places The SBA civil administrator to become the eyes and ears of the SBA and to try to pass on the feelings of the local residents, although we understand that this is a political decision We feel that time is not on our side and this situation should be addressed over the next couple of months. Notwithstanding the treaty of independence, our opinion is that locals do not feel the SBA is British government owned, save the actual military bases themselves (and even for this there is doubt).

A little give and take we say and we hope that the SBA and the Cyprus government are listening.

Antonis Loizou & Associates Ltd – Real Estate Valuers & Estate Agents, www.aloizou.com.cy, ala-HQ@aloizou. com.cy

Compiled by Natalie Hami

How much: €200,000 What you get: This two-bedroom, one-bathroom traditional house in Dora, Limassol boasts a fireplace and stone floors.

From: www.kaimarconsulting.com, Tel: 25 318712

How much: €200,000 What you get: This four-bedroom, one-bathroom property in Lefkara, Larnaca comes with a courtyard and a fireplace.

From: www.cyprusprop.com, Tel: 99 537985

33 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Property

Russia ponders capital’s future More radical ideas would place the capital in Siberia, Putin yet to express an opinion

By Timothy Heritage

W

HAT do you do when your capital city gets too polluted, too crowded and overrun by traffic?

Russia has an answer: Move it, or at least part of it.

Moscow authorities are drawing up plans to move a number of official buildings, including the parliament and some of the government administration, out of the clogged centre to a “federal district” that would be built in a southeastern suburb.

Other officials have come up with even more radical ideas, such as moving the capital to the sparsely populated frozen wastes of Siberia or Russia’s Far East.

President Vladimir Putin has not yet announced his views on the matter and could yet veto any move. But nothing can be ruled out in a country that has moved its capital before, the last time less than a century ago.

taking off.

But the people of Moscow doubt his plan will be implemented and Russian media have estimated the cost would be $30 billion.

“It’ll never happen. Not in my lifetime,” said Nikolai Kiselyov, a 35-year-old Moscow resident.

Another, 39-year-old Natalia Kovalyova, shrugged her shoulders as she did her shopping and said: “We hear of all sorts of plans and in the end they come to nothing. We want things to be better but they always turn out the same.”

Moscow attracts more investment that any other Russian city and accounts for about one quarter of the country’s $1.9 trillion economy.

But a World Bank survey published in June identified Moscow as the worst of 30 Russian cities to do business in - a bad advertisement for a city that Putin and Medvedev want to be a global finance centre by 2020.

Old and new: the towers of the Kremlin and St Basil’s cathedral have been joined by modern skyscrapers (below)

BUSTLING “I believe the capital should be located somewhere further away, in Siberia,” Sergei Shoigu said shortly before he took over in March as governor of the Moscow region that surrounds the bustling city of 10.5 million.

Academic Sergei Karaganov says Russia should have three capitals - Moscow as the political, military and diplomatic centre; St Petersburg in the west as the cultural centre; and the Pacific port city of Vladivostok as the new economic centre.

Having a capital close to Asia would reflect a global geopolitical shift in power away from Europe and be in line with Putin’s drive to breath life into parts of Russia that are rich in natural resources but have small populations.

It would also coincide with his efforts to focus more on developing trade and political ties with China.

“If Peter the Great lived now, he would undoubtedly build the capital not in the Baltic region, but by the Pacific Ocean,” Karaganov

RADICAL wrote in an essay, referring to the tsar who built St Petersburg as Russia’s “window on the West” three centuries ago.

The proposal to move thousands of bureaucrats and their headquarters to an area outside Moscow that is now a wasteland came from Dmitry Medvedev before Putin took over from him as president in May. Medvedev, who is now prime minister, wants to build the new administrative headquarters five km outside the main ring road that encircles Moscow. His plan has now been sent to the Kremlin and its fate lies with the president.

Medvedev has proposed moving government ministries, the presidential administration, government apparatus, Prosecutor General’s Office, the federal Investigative Committee and the Audit Chamber outside the centre.

A document cited by Kommersant newspaper said a

new complex of buildings would cover about 3.25km², costing 350 billion roubles ($10.67 billion) to build.

The money would not come from the federal budget but from loans to be covered by selling the buildings freed up in Moscow.

Some experts say the real cost of building the infra-

structure needed for such a move would be much higher, and fear the size of the contracts involved would make it open to corruption - a problem so widespread that it is almost a national pastime.

Putin has not publicly expressed an opinion on the project but sources close to

the Kremlin suggest he has shown little enthusiasm.

The gleaming high-rise office bloks and business centres that have sprung up since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991 show how far Russia has come since Communist times. They now share the skyline with the golden domes of churches and the square monolithic apartment blocs built in the Soviet era.

But many foreigners are put off coming to Moscow by the high cost of living, snarling traffic, pollution and security concerns - the main airport and the metro have been hit by bombings in recent years blamed on Islamist insurgents.

Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has vowed to improve life in the city and introduced higher fines for traffic offences this month as part of plans to unclog the centre. Moscow’s territory doubled this month under a redrawing of the map that can be seen as the start of Medvedev’s proposal

Many experts say Moscow is paying the price of poor urban planning.

If Medvedev’s plan is blocked, the more radical ideas of changing the location of the capital might get more of an airing.

There are precedents. Peter the Great stripped Moscow of its status as capital after more than 370 years when he gave the title to St Petersburg in 1712, hoping that being closer to western Europe would help Russia modernise.

Communist leader Vladimir Lenin decided to move the capital back to Moscow in March 1918, after the Bolshevik Revolution.

But one Moscow expert who opposes the plan and declined to give his name said the battle for construction contracts would be sure to lead to corruption and the new federal city would not be a pleasant place to live or work.

“There are other countries where it’s been tried and failed because people hate to live in these sterile places. If it does happen it will end up being all about corruption,” he said.

A healthy home and a healthy you YOU NEED to keep your home in a healthy condition in order to keep your health in good order too.

We have all seen ugly signs of damp, even in our wonderful climate here in Cyprus. Damp can cause all sorts of problems. It is not enough to scrape it off and paint over it!

Damp has legs and it will spread and come out elsewhere in your property – unless it is treated at the source. It costs nothing to get your property fully checked from the foundations and upwards. It is worth having a FREE inspection; if you do have damp in your home it can cause serious problems to the respiratory system, affecting your breathing and in some cases even leading to bronchitis! Flaking paint can often be the first signs of damp problems or leaking unsound roofs. Damp is not always visible to the naked eye, so get the FREE inspection and rest assured it can be solved, at the source and it will not cost you the earth to

get if fixed permanently.

If you are lucky enough not to have any damp, then the best thing you can do to permanently protect your home is to have a long lasting Elastomeric Exterior Coating which can flex with any changes in temperature and be watertight but it Breathes. This will act as a complete waterproof barrier and protect your home for years to come. It is not always enough to just paint your

home. The preparation combined with the correct application of the best product available will be your best insurance to keep your home watertight as well as cooler in summer and warmer in winter, due to the Thermo qualities.

Your next best ingredient would be to only have fully qualified tradesmen from a quality company with longevity and a proven track record behind them. Last but not least have your roof checked. Often flat roofs have no external protection whatsoever! A rubberised membrane is the answer to no leaks and to have the security of a waterproof barrier.

So get your free inspection and enjoy a ‘healthy home and most of all a healthy you’!!

For FREE advice and a FREE survey of your property, call freephone: 80000016, info@unisealcyprus.com, www.unisealcyprus.com

34 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Advertiser

ADVERTISER helps you find what you’re looking for

Only

€14 (plus VAT)

a week for classifieds (up to 40 words)

Send your classified by fax or email and pay by credit card, cheque or cash. It couldn’t be simpler!

Nicosia - email: classified@cyprus-mail.com Limassol - email: limassol@cyprus-mail.com Paphos - email: paphos@cyprus-mail.com

MISCELLANEOUS ***************************** CASTLE AUCTIONS – Auction & Sale Rooms in Kolossi, Limassol.

Next auction: SAT 28TH JULY at 5pm and includes; New furniture, power tools & wood lathe, beds, sofas, fridges, washing machines, gym equipment, collectables and much more. Tel: 7000 78 89, find us on Facebook or www.castle-auctions.com ***************************** TO ALL OF YOU WHO ARE GREEK ORTHODOX: The European Union Parliament is pressuring the Turkish Government to restore Saint Sophia Cathedral from a museum into a Greek Orthodox Church.

However the Parliament has set a requirement of 1,000,000 signatures on a petition before it makes this conversation a prerequisite for Turkey’s admission into the European Union. You are requested to cast your vote by logging on to a link at www. hagiasophiablog.com. This is an opportunity for each of you to have an impact on world events.

Get as many Greek Orthodox, other Orthodox and Christian friends of yours to sign the petition and make history. ***************************** ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS CYPRUS Is drink costing you more than just money? AA could be the answer.

Meeting at the following locations/ days. Call to speak to an AA member.

Ayia Napa Monday 97798043 Larnaca Tuesday (Polish spk) 96616589 Thursday 24645523 / 99259264 Limassol Tuesday / Wednesday / Friday / Saturday 25368265 / 99559322 Nicosia Wednesday/Sunday 99013596 Paphos Tuesday / Thursday / Saturday 99916331 / 99399240 Details of meetings are available on www.aa-europe.net ***************************** DOES SOMEONE ELSE’S DRINKING CAUSE YOU A PROBLEM? Al - Anon is for family and friends of those with a drinking problem. Call Nicosia 99 877205 for more information and details of meetings. *****************************

HEALTH & FITNESS STRESSCONTROL. Aromatherapy MASSAGE. Area Hilton NICOSIA. More info on 97696795 FULL BODY MASSAGE + AROMATHERAPY in classy surroundings in Kato Paphos – privacy & discretion. We offer

you professional mausseurs, appointments necessary 1 Hour for 35 euro, call 96637039 - honest people EIGHTSMILEYS OFFERS SUP (STAND UP PADDLE) LESSONS, RENTALS & SALES. A great way to release tension and stress at the same time exercise your body, made for all ages and genders. Find out more information on www.sup. com.cy facebook: Eightsmileys Kitesurfsup or call on 99355191 CLINICAL PILATES. Personalised Clinical Pilates by Physiotherapists in Nicosia. Individual assessment and supervision of exercises. “Clinical pilates” is a modified form of therapeutic exercise used by physiotherapists to assist in the rehabilitation and prevention of musculoskeletal injury especially lower back pain, sacro-iliac pain and neck pain. More info on 22446988. *****************************

PETS ***************************** FOR SALE 2 black female English cocker spaniel puppies, 2 months old, with an excellent pedigree, vaccinated, microchip with registration number, lovely natured, DNA tested parents.

For information look at www. costopa.net or call 99884578 Anna ( Nicosia) *****************************

PLEASE HELP find a foster home for this tiny little female 10month poodle . She is adorable and is very sensitive and at risk at the shelter. Please help us save her life! All our fosters are full at the moment !! email on ndsadoptions@gmail.com or text or call on 96328080/99520511

***************************** DOGS currently held in municipality pounds and facing euthanasia are looking for loving homes.

Various breeds and sizes. Will only be given to responsible dog-lovers. Adoption contract and medical package obligatory.

Nicosia area. For info 99548264, 99846033, 99987222. *****************************

LESSONS ***************************** GREEK LESSONS for children and adults: reading; writing; speaking. Information: 99905862 (Larnaca) ***************************** PRIVATE TUITION - Experienced,

Nicosia - tel: 22 818583 fax: 22 676385 UK-qualified teacher and tutor offers full / part time private home tuition in Maths, English, Science, Geography, History, Business Studies and Economics, from KS3 to iGCSE, AS and A2 levels. Telephone 26642781 or 99318796. *****************************

SERVICES EXPERIENCED PAINTER at very reasonable prices! Decorative coatings, house painting, sprits and graphiato, varnishing, damp proofing and protection from humidity for walls and ceilings. Free estimates! Call Harry on 97768020 ***************************** PROFESSIONAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING, also carpets, rugs and mattresses. Special offers now available. For a quote call Rickys Cleaning Services on 99131044 (all areas) rickyscleaningservices@gmail.com ***************************** UPHOLSTERY, RUG, BLINDS + CURTAIN CLEANING Rugs from 20€ - Carpets from 38€ Fabric Suites form 85€ - Leather Suites from 95€ - Mattresses from 25€. Curtains, Roman blinds, Vertical Blinds need to be surveyed. Collection Service available. For a free quotation call Mark on 70006766 All areas DO YOU WANT A SHINY LOOKING FLOOR? Full repair & restoration of chipped, scratched, dull and stained, Marble, Terrazzo, Stone & Ceramic tiled floors and surfaces. Professional cleaning, repair & sealing of internal/external ceramic tiles & grout lines.

For a free professional consultation & demonstration contact Mark at Premier on 70006766 or 96333961 All areas ***************************** SWIFT SERVICE AND REPAIRS air-cons, commercial and domestic fridges and freezers, ice machines, cool rooms, supply and fit air-cons VRV S. Call Nik on 99579602 Limassol ***************************** K.D.FLYSCREENS LTD We manufacture top quality sliding screens, opening doors and roller systems. We also do repairs.

For a FREE QUOTE please contact Phone: 99119582 Website: www.kdflyscreens.com ***************************** KEEP YOUR HOME COOLER THIS SUMMER by having Windowfilm professionaly fitted.

Stops up to 86% of heat from entering your home! Windowfilm increases privacy, blocks harmful uv-rays which cause fading, reduces glare and saves energy costs on air-con. Also keeps your home warmer in winter. Call Ian on 99979671 ***************************** K.D.FLYSCREENS LTD We manufacture top quality sliding screens, opening doors and roller systems. We also do repairs.

For a FREE QUOTE please contact Phone: 99119582 Website:

Limassol - tel: 25 761117 fax: 25 761141

www.kdflyscreens.com ***************************** WE UNDERTAKE REFURBISHING of houses or holiday homes, construction of pergolas, undertaking of plumbing, house painting, garden work.

For information call JIMMYS: 96587137, MELIS: 96547879 JURIDICAL SERVICES Contracts, sales agreements, conveyancing, wills, administration of estates, general litigation, power of attorney, land registry matters, companies, translations, immigration etc... And all legal matters. Call: Natalia Michealidou – jurist, Paphos Tel: 26 933159 – 99523231 (office hours)

FOR SALE MISCELLANEOUS ONE WAY AIRLINE TICKET to the UK for sale, Paphos international to Newcastle international airport on Sunday the 29th of July 2012, Jet 2 LS516, departing at 23:10 pm, arriving: 2:20 am price: €70 – o.n.o call : 99392420 BOOKSHOP language school closing down sale: books, desks, sofas, tables, chairs, bookshelves for sale. Nicosia centre. For info 99821634.

FURNITURE HOUSEHOLD ITEMS: Childs cot / mattress €50 play table and stools €50 Bunk Bed set with ladder/ mattress €100 child’s bike €40 Child’s easy chairs €30 Easel €20 gas BBQ 80 vacuum cleaner Miele €80 Abstract canvasses from €10 ENGOMI 22355790 CLOTHES STOCKS AND SHOP FITTINGS FOR SALE. Excellent women’s brands for sale including Italian, Spanish and French clothes and shoes. Also women’s dummies and modern wall fittings (clothes rails.)

Selling at very low prices for clearance. Tel: 99-168943

FOR SALE BUSINESS/ PROPERTY/LAND RESIDENTIAL PIECE OF LAND of 985sqm in the village of Pareklisia. Partial sea views, near to electricity and water supplies. € 135.000 D.C. (Cyprus) Real Estate Tel: 99 330 908 FOR SALE PLOT in the centre of Lefkara Village 670sqm, high build factor, near all shops, and amenities € 210.000 negotiable Tel: 99 330 908 PLOT LOCATED in Mesa Geitonia, Limassol 617sqm. 100% build. Ideal for the construction of apartment building or 1 or 2 large houses. Price reduced to € 360.000 tel. 99 330 908 www. cyprusre.com/listing-lim-0170 RESTAURANT FOR SALE Licensed restaurant in Yermasoyia tourist area in Limassol, due to the owner’s departure. Bargain price. Call: 99306674

Paphos - tel: 26 911383 fax: 26221049

PLOT IN GEROSKIPOU, just 5 minutes from the Paphos centre, with magnificent sea views of the whole of Paphos, 640 square metres, attached to a green area, premium piece of land, €210.000, Tel 99403261 (owners) FOR SALE OR RENT - Kato Paphos – full moon bar, fully furnished and equipped, large flat screen TV’s + projector, fits 120 people comfortably, incredible opportunity for ready business! Please call: 99493579 FOR SALE factory with showroom, 1050m2, in private land, in Kokkinotrimithia industrial zone. Tel. 99849195.

FOR SALE MOTOR VEHICLES 2002 HONDA HRV 1.6 3 door manual in Silver. 64000 miles with UK service history. New MOT, taxed until end of year.

A/C, electric windows & mirrors.

Central locking. CD player. Alloy wheels. Excellent condition throughout. 12 months warranty. €5995. Mike 99166532 www.mikejohnsoncars.com (and see what our customers say)

**************************** VOLKSWAGEN POLO 1.4, model 1998, manual, 5 door, dark blue, valid MOT, a/c, great stereo system, good condition. €2500. Nicosia. For info 99548265 ****************************

Larnaca - tel: 24 652243 fax: 24 659982

classified contents Employment Opportunities pg 34 Employment Miscellaneous 34 Pets 34 Lessons 34 Health & Fitness 34 Personal 34 Services 34 For Sale Miscellaneous 34 For Sale Land/ Property Business 34 For Sale Motor vehicles 34 Wanted 35 To Let Nicosia 35 To Let Limassol 38 To Let Larnaca 38 To Let Paphos 39 To Let Protaras, Ayia Napa, Paralimni -To Let Athens -Land For Sale Bulgaria -For Sale Limassol 40 For Sale Nicosia 40 For Sale Larnaca 40 For Sale Paphos 40 For Sale Ayia Napa -For Sale Famagusta Protaras -For Sale Athens -Property& Home Services display ads 41

abbreviations

MAZDA RX8 2004 Black,(high power 247) electric locks, a/c ,fog lights, MD player, CD changer, TV/DVD, navigator, factory adjustable suspension soft/ hard-up/down. 6+1 speed, body kit, MOT. The condition of the car is excellent. CALL 96871551 ****************************

FOR SALE BMW 320i CONVERTIBLE, 2008, colour platinum bronze, 18’’ alloys, being leather, cruise control, front and rear parking sesonrs, lightsrain sensors, wind deflector, 45000 km, excellent condition, €30,900. For information call 99405122. *****************************

bdrm c/h a/c s/pool f/f apt pm pw sw nw st rd p/s c/l swb r/cass e/w

bedroom central heating air conditioning swimming pool fully furnished apartment per month per week south west north west street road power steering central locking short wheel base radio cassette electric windows

Please note tel nos. that begin with: 22 = Nicosia 23 = Paralimni/Protaras 24 = Larnaca 25 = Limassol 26 = Paphos

35 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

WANTED TO RENT WANTED TO RENT ***************************** FLAT OR HOUSE TO RENT, 2-3 bedrooms, veranda/terrace or garden, prefer furnished, SW of Nicosia (in approx area Lakadamia to Kapedes and Kalo Chorio) alan.tye@birdlifecyprus.org. cy, 22455072, 99089083. ****************************

PROPERTY TO LET NICOSIA 2 BDRM, one floor apartment for rent, located in English school area (Nicosia), without common expenses, with a/c facilities, solar hot water system, at a very reasonable price. Contact number: 99335922.

ROOMS FOR RENT IN LONDON 2 rooms for rent in central London during the period 20th August-4th September.

4 minutes from King´s Cross tube station and 12 minutes walk from Oxford Str. Ideal for families or couples, for long or short holidays.

The two rooms are very comfortable and can be rented together or separately at the special rate of 200 euros per week each.

Call Andreas on 357 99632436 or Dimitris on 357 99409077

Advertiser TO LET NICOSIA

3 BEDROOM FLAT completely renovated in Strovolos. 135sqm, quite family owned building recently painted. c/h, a/c, storage room. Stainless steel appliances, washing machine. Sky satellite tv. € 650/month Call 99 330 908.

FOR RENT luxurious furnished office next to CITY PLAZA ready for business. Tel: 99697243.

LYCAVITOS 300sq.m., 3 bdrm office lux. €1500, Dasoupolis 2 bdrm., wooden floors modern design €750, Acropolis 3 bdrm f/f., modern furniture, luxury €1000, Hilton 2 bdrm., wooden floors, modern building €850, Mak/ssa whole floor flat with/ without furniture €1200, villas Mak/ssa-Strovolos with pool and garden. Costas Markides Tel: 22378898/99464764, Reg. No. 487, E16. ***************************** FLATS/HOUSES FOR RENT studio Strovolos €250, Lykavitos €380 1bdrm Ag. Andreas €490, Makarios Av. €500 2 bdrm Acropolis new €700, Lykavitos furnish €600, Acropolis €530 3bdrm Parissinos house semidetached €550 Acropolis back

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

***************************** ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT, in small quiet building, new, very spacious, fully furnished and air conditioned. Very good location between Strovolos and Engomi, close to The European University (Cyprus College) and all amenities. Covered parking. Rent €495/m. Please call 99695382 TO LET 3 bdrm flat Kaimakli area near Frederic. Tel. 99606665. ****************************** LUXURY HOUSES: 1. 5 bedrs detached house, 550sq.m, built in 2 big plots of land, big garden with grass, big swimming pool with extra fence for children and big covered patio with bbq area, big reception areas with marble floor, fire place and bar, big kitchen with all electrical appliances and sitting room with fire place, maid’s room, floor heating, full a/c, blinds on the windows, master

bedroom with en suite bathroom and shower, big bathroom for the other 3 bedrooms and extra shower in the 5th bedroom.

Available end of July - Strovolos €2500 (H5ST10001-R), (photos in the website).

2. 3 bedrs luxury ground floor renovated semi detached house,210sq.m, with central heating, air conditions, solid parquet floor, fire place, big kitchen with all the electric appliances, 2 wc curtains, big veranda, big patio on the back with bbq area, 2 covered parkings in a quiet neighborhood close to the Embassies –Engomi €900 (H3ENG0002-R), (photos in the website) 3. 4 bedr + separate office space + maid’s room luxury detached house, split level, big open space sitting areas,400sq.m,a/c for hot and cold in all the rooms, NICELY MODERN FURNISHED, swimming pool, big verandas, 2 covered parking, in a very quiet area near Lidl – Latsia €2500 (H4LAT0008-R), (photos in the website).

4. 3 bedr luxry detached house with 1 bedr flat in the basement, floor heating with gass a/c units,

big kitchen with electrical appliances, 4 wc, 3 bathrooms, big garden with small pebbles, 2 covered parking, in a quiet area in a dead end. Can be rented furnished or not. AVAILABLE in August – Makedonitissa €1700 (H4MAK0027-R), (photos in the website).

5. 4 bedr+ attic room with shower and wc luxury detached house with separate maid’s room, central heating, a/c, separate office room, sitting and dining areas, big kitchen with dining room and big family room opening to the big garden with grass and bbq area, 2 covered parking, behind General flooring shop – Makedonitissa €3000 (H4MAK0025-R), (Photos on the website).

6. 3 bedr + big attic room which can be used as a bedroom/office, detached house, central heating, full a/c,3wc, 2 bathrooms, big sitting and dining room, separate kitchen with all the electrical appliances, small garden and patio with bbq area, covered parking, near Apollonion hospital. – Makedonitissa €1200 (H4MAK0016-R), (photos

in the website) 7. 4 bedrs and sitting room upstairs luxury detached house, 380sq.m,room for the maid, central heating, full a/c, marble and parquet floor, big sitting and dining areas, office space, big verandas around the house, covered parking,3 bathrooms,4wc in a quiet area off Eleonon street, near Pizza Hut. AVAILABLE middle of July – Strovolos €1700 (H4ST10041-R), (photos in the website).

8. 4 bedr luxury detached house, 350sq.m, central heating, full a/c, office space, separate maid’s room, big storage room, solid parquet floor in the bedrooms, 2 covered parking, swimming pool, garden with trees, veranda with bbq area, big kitchen with all the electrical appliances, big sitting and dining areas, very near to English School, off Athalassas Avenue €2300 (H4ST10036-R), (photos on the website).

9. 4 bedr detached house with central heating, a/c units, separate big kitchen with el. appliances, small garden at the

CHILDCARE

English-Painter & Decorator

From a Cypriot - with 20 years experience in a kindergarten - looking after infants and children at her house in Nicosia

SUMMER OFFER 30% OFF ALL AREAS • External & Internal painting • Damp Damage Repairs • Spritze Repairs • Free Estimates + very clean work • All areas. All types of woodwork stained and preserved • All work guaranteed

house €300, Ag. Dometios independent house+garden €800, Acropolis €650, 4bdrm Ag. Andreas penthouse €800.

POSPORIDES ESTATES 99474839 99646822 Reg.338

For information call 99781943

Fully Qualified 30 years’ Experience

Tel. Tony on 99176557

ATPEX Fencing & Decking Specialist For all your Garden and Security Fencing ♦ Quality approved workmanship ♦ 15 years experience + guaranteed work ♦ English workers ♦ also garden gates ♦ sheds ♦ chain link fencing ♦ free estimates ♦ all types of fencing & decking

Tel. ATPEX fencing 99176557

36 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Advertiser TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

back, covered parking, 3wc,2 bathrooms, near the French ambassador residence – Strovolos €1000 (H4ST10038-R), (Photos on the website).

10. 4 bedr new luxury finished top quality detached house, 290sq.m, central heating, full a/c, master bedroom with ensuite shower/jacuzzi, guest bedroom with shower, main bathroom with jacuzzi, 4wc, fully expensive furnished with 3 LCD televisions, kitchen with very expensive electrical appliances and family room, garden with grass, big covered patio with bbq area,2 covered parking’s, alarm system, pressure system, Strovolos €3000 (H4STI0039-R), (Photos on the website).

11. 3 bedr + big attic room with shower and wc luxury new house,210sq.m, central heating, full a/c, 4wc, blinds on all windows, cooker and oven in the kitchen, small garden, covered parking near Alpha Mega supermarket - Strovolos €1400 (H4ST1007-R), (photos in the website).

12. 5 bedr new luxury finished detached house with separate maid’s room, one of the bedrooms with shower and wc and

can be used as guest room,4 wc, solid parquet floor all the house, separate family room with fire place, big sitting room, separate dining room, big kitchen with breakfast area, big outside patio with tiles and bbq area,2 covered parking, electrical appliances in the kitchen, in a very quiet neighborhood close to CYBC station. Can be rented furnished or not. – Platy Aglantzias €3000 (H5PAG0001-R), (Photos on the website).

13. 4 bedr+ separate maid’s room luxury finished semi detached house with central heating, full a/c, big sitting and dining areas, big kitchen with family room, full expensive electrical appliances in the kitchen(Miele), 4wc, blinds on windows, big back yard with tiled and bbq area, covered parking in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to the French school – Aglantzia €1400 (H4AGZ0008-R), (photos in the website).

14. 3 bedr luxury house, nicely modern furnished with big sitting and dining areas with bar, central heating, full a/c, big fitted kitchen with TV room, office space, patio area with bbq, covered parking, 3wc, solid parquet floor in bedrooms and

granite in the sitting areas, near the MEGA TV station – Archangelos €1300 (H3AR0002-R), (photos in the website).

15. 4 bedr house built in 2 plots,3 bedrs upstairs and one down, big garden with grass, bbq area with kiosk, Central Heating ,full AC,240sq.m,parquet floor,2 showers,3wc,electrical appliances in the kitchen, in a very quiet neighbourhood. Available in aprox. one month from signing contracts. CAN BE RENTED ALSO FURNISHED OR PARTIALLY FURNISHED – Agios Andreas €2000 (H4AAD0006-R), (photos in the website).

16. 3 bedr + office space +separate maid’s room detached luxury house, 450sq.m, recently renovated, with central heating, full a/c, big sitting and dining area with parquet floor, TV room with fire place, big kitchen with breakfast area and fitted cooker and oven, 4 wc, roller blinds on all windows, very big verandas and yard, covered parking, in a very quiet neighborhood in the centre of Makedonitissa opposite a playground. AVAILABLE MID JULY - €1400 (H4MAK0003-R), (photos in the website).

17. 3 bedr+ attic room which can be used for bedroom or office, luxury semi detached house, with central heating, full a/c, big separate kitchen with cooker and oven, blinds, big patio with tiles and trees on the back and covered veranda on thr front, parking, in a quiet area off 28th October street in the centre of Makedonitissa €1200 (H4MAK0026-R), (photos in the website) 18. New luxury 4 bedr + very big

40sq.m attic room with shower and wc semi detached house, 300 sq.m, central heating, full air condition, big sitting and dining areas, 4 wc, 2 showers,1 bathroom, solar heater, pressure system, covered parking, big back yard with tiles, blinds, cooker, oven and, refrigerator in the kitchen, in a very quiet neighborhood and area – Agios Dometios €1500 (H4ADO0004-R). (photos in the website).

19. 3 bedr new modern luxury detached house,180sq.m,central heating, full a/c, 3wc, 2 bathrooms, cooker and oven in the kitchen, blinds on all windows, off Tseriou Avenue. THE house is unfurnished. Lakatamia €775 (H3LAK0001-R), (photos in the website).

20. 3 bedr+ separate maid’s room semi detached house, 250sq.m, central heating, full a/c, big sitting and dining areas, big kitchen with family room, 4wc, 2 bathrooms, 1 shower, 2 covered parking, big verandas and big covered patio with bbq, big covered veranda for the winter on the back, fully furnished and equipped, in a quiet neighborhood very close to all amenities and Apha Mega supermarket - Acropolis €1200 (H4ACS0001-R), (photos in the website).

21. 4 bedr + 2 separate rooms with showers and wc (120sq.m) detached house with big sitting and dining areas, big kitchen with dining area and family room with fire place, very big swimming pool with bbq area, covered patio, garden with grass, central heating in 4 zones, full a/c, 6wc, 5 covered parking’s, pressure system,

opposite Apoel training field.

Can be rented furnished or not. AVAILABLE END OF AUGUST – Archangellos €4000 (H4AR0007-R), (photos in the website).

22. 4 bedrs new luxury detached house, 330sq.m, central heating, full a/c, 2 covered parking’s, big kitchen with sitting room and all the electrical appliances, blinds on the windows, 2 bedrs with en suite shower, bathroom with jacuzzi, swimming pool with patio and nice covered bbq area, opposite a green area in a very quiet area – Strovolos €3000 (photos in the website).

23. 4 bedr luxury detached house, separate maid’s room, 600 sq.m, central heating, full a/c, 6 wc, 4 bathrooms, big sitting and dining areas opening on to the garden, big kitchen with electrical appliances, built in 2 big plots of land with huge garden with grass, swimming pool, 2 covered parking, in a quiet neighbourhood close to Alpha Mega supermarket Engomi - €3700 (H4PA20005-R), (photos on the website).

24. 4 bedr luxury detached house with expensive finishes, office space, separate maid’s room, 3 of the bedrooms with en suite shower/bathroom, floor heating, full air condition, white marble floor all the house, fire place, lighting fixtures, big kitchen with all the electrical appliances, swimming pool with bbq area, small garden,2 covered parking’s in a nice neighbourhood with expensive houses near KEMA building – Platy Aglantzias €3500 (H4PAG0004-R), (photos in the website).

For many more properties with photos visit our website at www.landtouristestates.com which is updated daily. LANDTOURIST ESTATES LTD 22422225/96-422225/96422226, www.landtouristestates.com **************************** LUXURY FLATS: 1. 2 bedr luxury fully renovated apartment, storage heaters, 3 a/c, separate big kitchen, big

sitting dining room, fully modern furnished and equipped with solid parquet floor off Prodromou street – Engomi €600 (A2ENG0010-R), (photos in the website).

2. 2 bedr new luxury modern, 2 storey apartment with solid parquet floor, floor heating independent, full a/c, 2 bathrooms, 2 wc, expensive fitted electrical appliances, blinds, covered veranda with very nice view, in a quiet neighbourhood on a modern design building. AVAILABLE 1st of August – Aglantzia €750 (A2AGZ0021-R), (photos on the website).

3. 1 bedr luxury spacious apartment with big sitting room, separate kitchen with electrical appliances, central heating independent with diesel,2 a/c, aluminum shutters in the bedrooms, covered veranda, covered parking, storage room, on a small quiet building in a quiet neighborhood – Agios Dometios €450 (A1ADO0004-R), (photos in the website).

4. 3 bedr luxury PENTHOUSE apartment with storage heaters, full a/c, office space, very big veranda 100sq.m with nice view and bbq area with bar, NICELY MODERN FURNISHED, 2 bathrooms, 2 storage rooms, covered parking, in a small building near Hilton park and Ippokration hospital – Engomi €1000 (A3ENG0023-R), (photos in the website).

6. 3 bedr luxury apartment with storage heaters, full a/c, 2 bathrooms, electrical appliances in the kitchen, big covered veranda, covered parking, near Ippokration hospital – Engomi €700 (A3ENG0024-R), (photos in the website).

7. 2 bedr brand new luxury finished apartment on a small modern design building with 2 bathrooms, a/c for hot and cold (Mitsubishi), storage heaters can be installed if needed, electrical shutters in the bedrooms, pressure system, water serculation system, solar, electrical appliances in the kitchen, blinds, covered veranda, 2 COVERED PARKING, storage

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION On May 21st, 2012 in accordance with Section 14.81.1 C of the Liberian Business Corporation ActDogonLtd (“Company”) with registration number C-37274 doing business at 9 Marikas Kotopouli Street, 3030 Limassol the shareholders have agreed to dissolve the Company.

1. All claims against the assets of the Company must be made in writing and include the claim amount, basis and origination date.

2. The deadline for submitting claims is 23rd November 2012 3. Any claims that are not received by the company prior to the date set forth above will not be recognized.

5. All claims and payments must be sent to P. O Box 53766, 3317 Limassol, Cyprus Dated: March 22nd, 2012.

Camilla Strømstad Liquidation board

37 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Advertiser

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

room, near the centre and near traffic lights of Honda showroom. – Agioi Omologites €700 (A2AOM0007-R) 8. 3 bedr new luxury spacious apartment, 150sq.m+big covered veranda, big sitting and dining room, nicely furnished big separate kitchen with cooker and oven, 3 wc, 2 bathrooms, big bedrooms, a/c for hot and cold in all the rooms, electrical heating if needed, covered parking and big room on the ground floor with window which can be used for a maid or office, in a very quite neighbourhood in a

small building – Agios Dometios €750 (A3ADO0006-R), (photos in the website) 9. 3 bedr new luxury penthouse apartment on the last floor of a 3 storey building, CH ind, full a/c, pressure system, cooker and oven in the kitchen, blinds in the living room, 2 bathrooms, 130sq.m, big veranda with view, covered parking, 200m opposite Akropolis park. AVAILABLE 1st of August – Acropolis €850(A3ACS0039-R), (photos on the website).

10. 2 bedr new luxury finished apartment with a/c for hot and

cold, NICELY MODERN FURNISHED, big covered veranda,2 bathrooms,2wc,covered parking, storage room, secured entrance building in a very quiet neighborhood – Aglantzia €650 (A2AGZ0022-R), (photos in the website) 11. 1 bedr apartment, 55sq.m, separate kitchen, fully furnished and equipped with television in good condition,2 AC for hot and cold on Makarios Avenue near Debenhams. Available for short and long term – Nicosia Centre €450 (A1NIC0002-R), (photos in the website).

12. 1 bedr apartment with storage heaters, 2 a/c, big bathroom, NICELY FUNRISHED, covered parking, covered veranda with nice view, in a quiet area near Ippokration hospital – Engomi €500 (A1ENG0009-R), (photos in the website).

13. New luxury 2 bedr apartment with nice view, 100sq.m, big sitting & dining area, big separate kitchen with cooker and oven, big covered verandah, 2 wc, storage heaters, 2 a/c, electric shutters in the bedrooms, covered parking and storage room on the 11th floor of a small building with 6 flats only

200 meters for Akropolis park and opposite a small neighborhood park – Dasoupolis €570 (A2DAS0001-R), (photos in the website).

14. New luxury modern 3 bedr apartment,145sq.m big covered veranda with nice view, a/c in all the rooms, electrical heating, cooker and oven in the kitchen, big sitting and dining room,2 bathrooms, laundry room, covered parking and storage room off Kennedy Avenue behind KPMG offices – Acropolis €900(A3ACS0038-R), (photos on the website).

15. 3 bedr +separate maid”s room (with shower and wc) & luxury apartment with central heating independent, full a/c, 3wc, 2 bathrooms, big separate kitchen with breakfast area and electrical appliances, big sitting and dining area with solid parquet floor, big covered veranda, blinds, alarm system, 2 parking, in a quiet area off Makarios Avenue near Hilton – Nicosia Centre €1100 (A3NIC0023-R), (photos in the website).

16. New luxury 2 bedr apartment with central heating independent, full ac, fully modern nicely furnished and equipped, big

GREEK ISLAND SAILING We still have some availability for July and August but be quick!

FROM ONLY ¤899!!

Visit smaller ports than larger cruise ships, stop at a taverna for lunch, then hop back onboard for a snorkelling stop in the afternoon – this truly is an experience like no other!

PRICES INCLUDE 7NTS HALF BOARD CRUISE, FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS

Tel: 70 000 970

info@centurycyprus.com

www.centurycyprus.com

38 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Advertiser TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET NICOSIA

TO LET LIMASSOL

TO LET LIMASSOL

TO LET LIMASSOL

covered verandah, 2 wc, covered parking opposite Hilton, off Makarios Avenue close to the centre – Lykavitos €650 (A2LYK0003-R), (photos in the website) 17. Brand new quality finished 2 storey Penthouse apartment with cozy nicely modern fully furnished apartment, 150sq.m unique design, a/c for hot and cold in all the flat, 2wc, big verandas around the flat, private elevator with lock for the flat , in the centre of Makedonitissa of 28th October street – €1200 (A3ENG0024-R), (photos in the website).

18.

4 bedr luxury floor apartment,250sq.m, office, maid’s room, central heating ind, full a/c,2 showers, 1 bathroom, 3wc, parquet floor, big kitchen with cooker and oven, big sitting area, roller blinds on all the windows, big veranda on a small building off Athalasas Avenue near Alpha Mega supermarket and Areteion hospital – Dasoupolis €1100 (A4DAS002-R), (photos on the website) 19. 2 bedr luxury apartment, 95sq.m, 4 AC for hot and cold, fully newly furnished and equipped, covered verandah, 2 wc, covered parking off Makarios Avenue between Hilton and Debenhams – Nicosia Centre €700. Can be rented also for 6 months for €1100 per month (A2NIC0024-R), (photos in the website) 20. 3 bedr new luxury finished penthouse floor apartment, 240sq.m, big sitting and dining area(can fit 2 sitting rooms and dining table), big separate kitchen with cooker, oven, microwave, laundry room and breakfast area, big bedrooms, 3wc,

2 bathrooms, storage heaters, full a/c, blinds on all windows, pressure system, covered parking, big covered veranda, off Iphigenia’s street near Ministry of Education on a small building with 7 flats only. Available in September – Acropolis €1300 (A3ACS0019-R), (photos in the website).

21. 3 bedr spacious apartment, 150sq.m, central heating independent, 3a/c, big sitting room,2 bathrooms,2wc,covered veranda, in a small building with 2 flats only, covered parking, near Hilton Park hotel – Engomi €750 (A3ENG0022-R), (photos in the website).

22. 4 bedr new luxury finished apartment, 160sq.m+35sq.m covered veranda, big sitting and dining room, NICELY MODERN FURNISHED, Daikin air-conditions for hot and cold in all the rooms, 2 bedrs with en suite shower/wc, 4wc, 2 covered parking, in a small modern building off Makarios Avenue in a quiet neighbourhood. Available in August – Nicosia Center €1400 (A4NIC0001-R), (photos in the website).

23. New luxury spacious 3 bedr quality apartment, 165sq.m+ big covered verandah, separate floor heating, full a/c, 3 wc, 2 bathrooms (one en suite), solid parquet floor all the flat, big sitting and dining area (can fit 2 sitting rooms and dining table), electrical appliances in the kitchen which has a breakfast area,2 covered parking, storage room in a very quiet green neighbourhood near the centre and Ag. Andreas - AVAILABLE in AUGUST– Nicosia Center €1450 (A3NIC0004-R), (photos in the website).

24. 3 bedr+ separate maid”s room (with shower and wc) luxury apartment with central heating independent, full a/c, 3wc, 2 bathrooms, big separate kitchen with breakfast area and electrical appliances, big sitting and dining area with solid parquet floor, big covered veranda, blinds, alarm system, 2 parking, in a quiet area off Makarios Avenue near Hilton – Nicosia Centre (A3NIC0023-R), (photos in the website).

25. 2 bedr new luxury finished and FURNISHED ground floor apartment, 80sq.m +120sq.m veranda and garden, separate floor heating, full a/c, 2wc, aluminum shutters outside the windows, pressure system, fully expensively fitted with electrical appliances in the kitchen, big covered parking and big storage room, off Athallassa Avenue near English School in a small modern building. AVAILABLE 1st of AUGUST – Strovolos €800 (A2ST10023-R), (photos in the website).

26. 3 bed brand new luxury finished apartment in a small modern design building with 2 bathrooms(one en suite), expensive electrical appliances in the kitchen, double glazed windows with electrical shutter, covered veranda, pressure system, solar heater, central satellite antenna, 2 covered parkings, storage room, security entrance, close to Honda traffic lights walking distance to the centre – Agioi Omologites €850 (A3AOM0009-R), (photos in the website).

For many more properties with photos visit our website at www.landtouristestates.com which is updated daily. LANDTOURIST ESTATES LTD 22-

422225 / 96-422225 / 96422226 www.landtouristestates.com *****************************

95 116808 **************************** VERY SPACIOUS LUXURY BUNGALOW HOUSE situated in the village of Palodeia, ideal for its proximity to the Heritage school and only 5 miles to Limassol town centre with shops and banks close by. Accommodation comprises of an open plan sitting room/dining area, fully fitted and equipped kitchen, 1 master bedroom with en-suite, 3 large bedrooms, a separate wc/bathroom and an office room. A/c & c/h throughout. In front of the house is a car port for 2 cars but has additional space for another 3 or 4 cars. Price €1250.00pm.

Viewing available after 23/8/12 please contact Yiannakis Georgiou 99451011. **************************** LIMASSOL, RENT: Office of around 110 m2, with partitions, split units, kitchenette and parking in a peaceful, green yet central area at Helladion House(off.

201), 5 Andrea Kalvou Str. For viewing, please knock on off.

202(2nd flloor). For further details, please call 25-521873 or 25-731163 after 8:00pm. **************************** LIMASSOL. Spacious modern 2 bedroom flat, tranquil block, central residential area, sea and mountains views. Full a/c. Solar water heater, power shower.

Covered parking. Real wood flooring. Italian kitchen. New Sony TV DVD. Fully equipped.

99409829 info@idclimassol.org **************************** FOR RENT IN CENTRE OF LANIA village a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom modernised old village house.

Unfurnished, 425 euro pcm Tel 99305491. ****************************

OFFICE FOR RENT OPPOSITE SEA WITH amazing sea views.

120sqm, 2 bathrooms, kitchen.

Security system, cabling and server room ready. Price € 1400/ month negotiable tel. 99 330 908 www.cyprusre.com/listingLIM-0103

LIMASSOL STUDIO FOR RENT 100 metres from the sea, furnished, parking available Area; Potamos Germosoia, available from 1st August 2012 rental €350mnthly including levies. 99867267 **************************** GROUND FLOOR 3 bedroom house, fully furnished, 2 bathrooms, renovated, electrical equipment, fitted kitchen, laundry small room, a/c, rolex windows, big veranda, good price, Apostolos Andreas-Haraki, 99497576, 99-886775, 99-924444 ***************************** 4 BEDROOM recently renovated whole floor apartment of 200sqm.. Fully Furnished.

Opposite sea, swimming pool, tennis court, and security gate.

3 new bathrooms, new kitchen with stainless steel appliances. 2 Covered parkings. Price € 1500/ month. Call 99 330 908 ***************************** OFFICE FOR RENT opposite sea with amazing sea views.

120sqm, 2 bathrooms, kitchen.

Security system, cabling and server room ready. Price € 1400/ month negotiable tel. 99 330 908 www.cyprusre.com/listingLIM-0103 ***************************** GROUND FLOOR HOUSE 3 bedrooms in Omonia furnished / unfurnished, fire place in sitting room, main sitting room, kitchen, bathroom, utility, shower with W/C. A/C in bedrooms.

Covered parking. Price €650. Tel

LARNACA ***************************** FULLY FURNISHED one bedroom flat near Larco hotel Larnaca. Price €370. Tel: 99202543 **************************** 1. K.S.L LETTINGS – APARTMENT FOR RENT Fully Furnished ground floor 2 bedroom apartment, overlooking pool.

Beautifully furnished throughout. 350 Euros per calendar month. Larnaca District. Quote TLL884. Tel. (00357) 24815104 2. K.S.L LETTINGS – Properties Required for waiting Long Term Tenants. We desperately require 2/3 & 4 bedroom villa’s with private swimming pools for waiting tenants in the Larnaca District. Please call us for a free valuation. Tel.(00357) 24815104 3. K.S.L LETTINGS – largest range of properties. Over 200 rental properties in the Larnaca district at the most competitive rates! Flexible contracts available. Tel. (00357) 24815104 4. WWW.KSLLETTINGS.COM – VILLA FOR RENT Fully furnished 3 bedroom Villa with a good-sized rear garden & Communal pool, located in the village of Oroklini. Call for further information quoting Ref. TLL1189. Tel. (00357) 24815104

39 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Advertiser

TO LET LARNACA

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

CALL 24 815 104 TO ENQUIRE OR ARRANGE A VIEWING – NO OBLIGATION OR FEES. VIEW OUR FULL RANGE OF OVER 200 PROPERTIES BY VISITING WWW.KSLLETTINGS.COM UPDATED DAILY. LANDLORDS ADVERTISE YOUR PROPERTY FOR FREE AND GET WORLD WIDE ADVERTISING – NO TENANT NO FEE ! ****************************

private, swimming pool, sea and mountain views, undercover parking -750 euros. Please contact 99774314 **************************** For your consideration 1. KATHIKAS AREA €450 a modern 2 bedroom, stone walled villa with sea views, large swimming pool and 650 sq metres garden. In a quiet cul-de-sac, available unfurnished or furnished. Solar panels and pressurised water system. A great villa in a fabulous village. Will accept pets.

2. TREMITHOUSA €275 situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, this furnished modern 3 bedroom detached house with small garden is available, a/c throughout and satellite broadband. Offering fantastic views of the sea.

3. TREMITHOUSA €250 luxury 2 bedroom maisonette. Fully furnished with modern furniture and satellite broadband. Modern furniture with new appliances. & A/c throughout. Good sea views. Located in a fabulous village. A must see!

4. CENTRAL PAPHOS €250 modern 1 bedroom top floor apartment, opposite bowling, master with walk-in wardrobe.

Fully furnished with all appliances. Lift to all floors. This complex offers a lovely communal pool area and security barrier entrance. Close to amenities, a great central location.

Call Val on 99166563 Or Liz on 96703403 **************************** UNIVERSAL AREA, 2 bedroom modern furnished town house, communal pool Euro 450 per month Tel 99387842

ANAVARGOS, 3 bedroom detached house, low maintenance garden, communal pool, very close to international school, Unfurnished or furnished, euro 550 per month Tel: 99239262

FOR RENT - Large modern studio flat in small residential block, in central Paphos, 5 minutes from town centre, 2 minutes from motorway, and 10 minutes from Kato Paphos. Separate Living area/kitchen and bedroom.

Fully furnished (washing machine etc.) Covered veranda, and undercover designated parking. Only €215/month inc. communal charges. Phone 99310481. **************************** 1. YEROSKIPOU AREA, euro 380, beautiful 2 bed, first floor apartment, fully furnished, large bathroom, large balcony.

2. YEROSKIPOU AREA, 3 bedroom villa with pool, unfurnished, large garden and ample parking. Main bedroom en-suite, ground floor w/c with cloakroom, separate kitchen area. Euro 500 per month 3. UNIVERSAL, 1 bedroom apartment on ground floor with garden, patio to front, well maintained complex with pool, fully furnished, euro 300 per month ono 4. MESA CHORIO, 2 bedroom apartment , modern furniture, fully equipped, one bedroom en-suite + one bathroom, panoramic views, well maintained complex with pool, euro 400 per month ono MANY MORE PROPERTIES AVAILABLE - CALL : 96753677 **************************** ONE BEDROOM fully furnished apartment for rent in Kissonerga. Near Cynthiana Beach hotel and close proximity to Coral Bay. Overlooking the sea and 100 metres from beach. AC in bedroom. Tel: 99-492521/ 99673276

**************************** PROPERTY TO RENT CHLORAKA: 3 Bedroom U/F Detached House Enclosed garden, A/C, Oven Hob Extractor 550 Per month REF: JAP3V159 TOMBS OF THE KINGS: 1st Floor F/F Apartment 1 Bedroom, Sat TV, A/C, Sea Views, Communal Pool 350 Euros per month REF: JAP1A024 PEYIA: 2 Bedroom F/F Apartment A/C, Communal Pool, Sauna, Gym. 325 Euros per month neg REF: JAP2A182 EMBA: 3 Bedroom U/F House, A/C, White Goods Communal Pool 500 Euros per month REF: JAP3V053 PEYIA: 3 Bedroom U/F Bungalow,some A/C, Flyscreens Cyta line, Private Pool, roof terrace. 600 Euros per month not neg .

KATO PAPHOS: 2 Bedroom Furn apartment, Shutters, A/C, Close to Bar Street. 400 Euros per month REF: JAP2A186 PEYIA: 3 Bedroom U/F Detached Villa, Private Pool, Enclosed Gardens Car port, A/C.Large lounge, 600 Euros per month neg REF: JAP3V199 CORAL BAY: 8 Bed furnished villa, pool, games room,8 bath rooms, play area, car port,Jacuzzi,grape vines, large plot. 2,250 Euros pm REF: JAP8V196 HOLIDAY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT/CLEANS CHANGEOVER SERVICE AVAILABLE. WE URGENTLY REQUIRE PROPERTIES IN ALL AREAS FOR WAITING CLIENTS. JOHN ALICE PROPERTIES TEL: 00357 99984681 WEB: WWW.JOHNALICE-PROPER-

TIES.COM EMAIL: JOHNALICCY@GMAIL.COM **************************** PEYIA – 3 bedroom villa with modern quality furniture and finishes. Central heating, sky, alarm, infinity pool and stunnning sea and mountain views €700 per month, call : 99389426 ***************************** BRAND NEW APT, opposite Poseidonio Gym, near Carrefour, F/F, a/c, great quality, 1 bdrm, from €340p.m.Tel 99403261 **************************** MR RENT PAPHOS, THE LEADING PROPERTY RENTAL AGENCY IN PAPHOS OFFICE: 26271858 (00357) IF YOU HAVE A PROPERTY TO RENT WE ARE THE RENTAL AGENCY TO CONTACT OFFERING FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & RENT COLLECTION SERVICE 1. PEYIA €375 luxury modern 2 bedroom apartment. Beautifully furnished with modern furniture includes Miele kitchen appliances, fly screens, plasma TV with set up showing UK channels.

Close to Peyia village on a great complex with gardens, large c/ pool, hot tub, indoor pool, sauna & gym. Undercover parking & storage.

2. UNIVERSAL AREA €450 spacious 2 bedroom townhouse situated in great central location, not on a complex, with enclosed garden & jacuzzi hot tub. Fully furnished with good furniture.

Private drive for off street parking.

3. KAMARES €600 detached 3 bedroom bungalow, master with ensuite. Situated in the sought after residential area of Tala. Offering a peaceful setting with covered veranda and

PAPHOS ***************************** FOR RENT A selection of 1 to 5 bedroom houses & apartments F/F & U/F Universal, Peyia, Tomb of the Kings, Tsada, Timi & Kato Paphos Landlord & Owners please call 99329357 Or please view at are website www.cyprussands.com Fully Registered Company in Cyprus ***************************** CHLORAKA, 2 bedroom apartment, only 5 years old, fully furnished with a/c, lovely, large patio area in rear €300 per month, + communal charges please call Malcolm on: 99127031 - no agents **************************** FOR RENT new ground floor terrace studios for rent in Kouka village(20 minutes from Limassol) in a quiet and peaceful area fully furnished €180 per month minimum contract 1 year. Inf. Mob 99548855 **************************** MESOYI – 3 bed detached bungalow - u/f, a/c, spacious living area, 1 x en-suite & family bathroom, large garden, very

*****************************

***************************** EPISKOPI – PAPHOS, 3 bedroom bungalow, unfurnished, a/con, fire-place, spectacular mountain views, large established garden with irrigation, swimming pool, very quiet location, euro 650 ono – long term Please call Micheal: 99655636 - no agents **************************** GREAT VALUE STUDIO FLAT FOR RENT, - Large modern studio flat in small residential block, in central Paphos, 5 minutes from town centre, 2 minutes from motorway, and 10 minutes from Kato Paphos.

Separate Living area/kitchen and bedroom. Fully furnished (washing machine etc.) Covered veranda, and undercover designated parking. Only Euro 215/month inc. communal charges. Phone 99-310481. **************************** AYIOS DEMETRIANOS 3 bedroom villa with swimming pool, large established garden, sea views, unfurnished, very quiet area. Euro 550 per month - ono.

Call: 99127195 **************************** BEAUTIFUL, 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, furnished and fully air-conditioned, situated close to Carrefour €330. And a 1 bed new apt, attractive and spacious, furnished with S.pool, in Chlorakas, 500 meters from the St. George hotel €290. OWNERS, TEL 99403261, 26934650 ***************************** GREAT VALUE STUDIO FLAT

40 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Advertiser TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

TO LET PAPHOS

FOR SALE NICOSIA

views of the sea & mountains.

Fully furnished with gas central heating and real working fireplace for those winter months.

A lovely home with character.

4. TALA €675 unfurnished modern 3 bedroom detached villa offering total privacy & breathtaking sea views. Includes underfloor heating plus real fire.

Master with ensuite. Large storage room. Shutters & flyscreens. Covered veranda, garden with mature plants, private pool offering sea views.

Off street parking. a beautiful home.

5. LOWER PEYIA €700 unfurnished 3 bedroom bungalow, master with ensuite. Spacious kitchen & living area. Enclosed garden with well & private pool offering sea views. Rental price includes pool cleaning. Covered veranda, private drive for off street parking. Situated in a quiet residential area.

6. KONIA €700 new to the market this spacious detached 3 bedroom villa, master with ensuite. Guest wc. Beautifully furnished with quality modern furniture. Separate modern fitted kitchen plus separate utility room. Shutters to all windows.

Roof terrace with sea views.

Fully enclosed garden with storage shed, covered barbeque area and private pool offering lovely views.

7. TALA €1300 magnificent modern 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom villa, furnished with designer modern furniture, though can be available unfurnished if desired. Large modern fitted kitchen with top brand appliances. Includes gas central heating & working fireplace.

Beautifully designed & spacious with undercover parking, private pool & sea views.

A must to see!

8. ANARITA €1800 amazing 4 bedroom detached villa, this stunning property offers top of the range modern kitchen.

Spacious living rooms, all bedrooms with modern en-suites.

Landscaped gardens with private pool offering total privacy & covered barbeque area, great for entertaining. Available fully furnished or unfurnished & includes gas central heating & so much more.

Tel: 97790883 Tel: 99133422 office: 26271858 visit our website for many more properties www.mrrent-paphos. net email: info@mrrent-paphos.net **************************** RENTAL POINT - PAPHOS *** PROPERTIES AVAILABLE TO RENT IN THE PAPHOS DISTRICT. JUST A SMALL SAMPLE OF AVAILABLE PROPERTIES. ALL TYPES OF

PROPERTY URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR LONG TERM RENTAL. CALL 97641764 FOR MORE INFORMATION. LANDLORDS CALL IF YOU HAVE A PROPERTY FOR RENT.!!!

1. LOWER PEYIA – 5 bed 2 bath fully furnished villa set in good area. Open plan living area. Separate kitchen with D/W.W/M etc. 2 ground floor bedrooms with bathroom.

Stairs to 3 additional bedrooms and bathroom. Doors out to large roof terrace with views. Outside parking for 3 cars, large swimming pool, BBQ and water feature. Landscaped gardens. A/C. Euros 800.00 a month 2. TRIMITHOUSA 3 bed 2. bath unfurnished apartment/house set in quiet location with views.

Open plan living area and dining area. Fully fitted kitchen with appliances . Guest WC. 3 double bedrooms. Family bathroom. Large balcony, offstreet parking. Euros 400.00 a month.

3. KATHIKAS – 3 bed,2 bath unfurnished stone bungalow with no immediate neighbours. Open plan living area with fireplace with log burner. Fitted kitchen, utility room. 3 bedrooms, master with en-suite. Family bathroom. Parking, Swimming pool and landscaped garden areas.

Very quiet area. Euros 600.00 a month 4. CHLORAKAS – 2 Bed, 2. bath fully furnished apartments (2 available) in good location close to amenities. Open plan living area with dining space.

Fitted kitchen, 2 double bedrooms. Bathroom. Off street parking & comm. Pool. Euros 395.00 a month inclusive of municipal taxes.

5. GOUDI (near Polis) Outstanding 3 bed, 3.5 bath unfurnished villa. Set in a rural setting the property enjoys privacy with no immediate neighbours. Open plan living area, spacious fitted kitchen. Guest WC. Ground floor bedroom with en-suite. Stairs to

2 further double bedroom with en-suite. Breakfast area with hob & fridge and seating space.

Doors out to large covered verandah with panoramic views.

Full A/C, C/H, garage, over-flow tiled pool, SKY dish. Villa has substantial insulation to walls and floors. Large gardens. Euros 800.00 per month.

6. UNIVERSAL AREA. 2 bed fully furnished apartment. Living area, fitted kitchen. 2 double bedrooms and family bathroom. A/C, balcony, shutters, comm. Pool and parking. Euros 400.00 a month or offers. 1 & 2 bed apartments available on Universal.

7. TALA - 5 bed, 3.5 bath large fully furnished villa. Very large property with open plan living area. Fitted kitchen, storage cupboard, guest WC. 2 bedrooms, bathroom on this level with small seating area. Ideal for dual living. Stairs up to 3 double bedroom, en-suite & family bathroom. Heated swimming pool, A/C, C/H. Electric gates and garden areas. Parking for several cars.Euros 1500.00 per month or offers.

8. LOWER PEYIA. 3 bed, 3 bath villa. Set in pretty location.

Open plan living area, fitted kitchen. Guest WC. 3 bedrooms one with en-suite. Family bathroom. Pool, landscaped gardens and parking. Available furnished or unfurnished.

Euros 550.00 per month.

FOR FULL LISTINGS OF APARTMENTS/TOWNHOUSES AND VILLA PLEASE CALL FOR DETAILS. ALL TYPES OF PROPERTY URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR LONG TERM RENTAL LANDLORDS/OWNERS PLEASE CALL PLEASE CALL 97648440 or email:- inforentals@aol.com **************************** REFURBISHED stone-built village house located in Kili Paphos. Consists of 3 large rooms 1 small. Traditional wood burnt fireplace, fully tiled secluded yard and garage.

Tel: 99210610.

*****************************

BUSINESS FOR SALE Opportunity to purchase well established and successful take-away business in the centre of Larnaca. Annual T/O over 200k. with approx 50% profit and real potential to franchise across Cyprus.

SERIOUS ENQUIRIES ONLY 99877953

GLASS WORKS - GLASS RAILINGS

l” 3bed, “Environmyenfotar transfer Title read WITH TITLE

1-5 bed villas & cottages

HIGH QUALITY GLASS WORKS, RAILINGS, SHOWERS, E.T.C., AT AFFORDABLE PRICES WORK UNDERTAKEN ALL OVER CYPRUS FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT US ON: 26933618 - 99537063

U SEFUL PHONE NUMBERS POLICE DIVISION HQ

HOSPITALS ........ 1400

Nicosia ........................22 802 020 Limassol ......................25 805 050 Larnaca .......................24 804 040 Paphos ........................26 806 060 Famagusta ..................23 803 030

Nicosia General .............22-801400 Nicosia Makarios ...........22-405000 Limassol Old ................25-305333 Limassol New ................25-801100 Larnaca Old...................24-630312 Larnaca New .................24-630300 Paphos ..........................26-821800 Famagusta ....................23-821211

Drug Law Enforcement Unit ......................................... 1498 (Confidential Information) Rescue Co-ordination Centre ............................. 1441 (Immediate Response Service for Aeronautical or Maritime Accident & Incidents) Game Fund Service: (Wildlife and hunting) Central offices (Nicosia): 22867786, 22-867897 Nicosia: 22-664606, 99-445697 Limassol: 25-343800, 99-445728, Larnaca/Famagusta: 24-805128, 99-634325 Paphos: 26-306211, 99-445679 Forest Fires ..................... 1407

Narcotics Helpline ......... 1410 (Outside hours.............. 22-304160) AIDS Advisory Bureau ................................ 22-302826 Domestic Violence Centre .......................................... 1440 (Emergency Centre for Victims) Drug Info & Poison Control ............... 1401 Cyprus Samaritans ... 77777267 Police Duty Officer ......... 1499 (Confidential Information) Airports Larnaca ..........................77778833 Paphos ...........................77778833

PROPERTY FOR SALE NICOSIA

FOR SALE LIMASSOL

LIMASSOL 2 BEDROOM FLAT located in Germasoyia with partial sea views, 85sqm less than 10 years old with title deeds Price € 135.000 tel. 99 330 908 www.cyprusre. com/listing-lim-0361

***************************** ***************************** FOR SALE IS A BUILDING WITH 4 FLATS, each 3 bedroom. 2 on the ground floor with yards, and 2 on the first floor. 2 on first floor completely renovated. Located in quite area. Building recently plastered and painted. €850,000 euro. negotiable Call: 99 330 908 ***************************** 3 BEDROOM Luxury Apartment in a lovely neighbourhood of Nicosia (Ayios Andreas) Bldg 12 years old 123 Sqm Covered area, Central Heating, Air Cond e.t.c Price 210 K Euro. For Details please call 99-379904 ***************************** FLAT FOR SALE/RENT: ‘ITHAKI’ is a small 3 Storey brand new building, only 5 units located in quiet neighbourhood in Strovolos, near Falcon school. ITHAKI has only 2 completed 3 bedroom apartments per floor. And on 3rd floor an independent 3 bedroom penthouse with a roof garden. Italian Kitchen, big verandas, big storeroom and convenient parking. PANICOS STAVRINOU ESTATE AGENT R.N.497 99666703 email yemo@cytanet.com.cy ***************************** FOR SALE is a building with 4 flats, each 3 bedroom. 2 on the ground floor with yards, and 2 on the first floor. 2 on first floor completely renovated. Located in quiet area. Building recently plastered and painted. €850,000 negotiable Call: 99 330 908 ***************************** FOR SALE PENTHOUSE between Armenias Str and Hilton Hotel. 3 bedroom, main bedroom with shower, c/h, fireplace, large verandas. For more information please call: 99467596. *****************************

SALE LIMASSOL 2 bed flat on beach road; light, airy with balcony. New flooring, a/c units, lift 2nd floor, windows 3 sides, own car space. TITLE DEEDS. €115,000. Tel 99178141 www.homesinternational.info (Les Bois) ****************************

LARNACA NEAR MARONI Coastline Larnaca 2 bdrm bungalow on large plot Wrap around veranda with sea & mountain views, Large lounge/ dining room, Large Kitchen, Full C/H Provision for a/c All furniture & car included €295,000 99147929

PAPHOS LUXURY VILLA 550 sq.m in 1250 lot.,5 bed.6 bath. maids en suite, walk in basement, beautiful landscape, double garage, large pool, playground, well, quiet neighborhoot. Price 1.550.000 M. Phone 357-99432074,35799552585 **************************** TALA, 5 bdrm villa for sale . Title deeds.sea and mountain view.

5 en-suite double bedrooms.

Central heating, a/c, fireplace.

Private L shape s/pool and garden area, patio, with bbq, bar and pergola. Car parking. Plot: 620 sq.m. Covered: 285sqm, €458.000. tel. 99587757

OFFICE/WAREHOUSE FOR RENT 735m² of office space and 1200m² warehousing available for long term rent on Yianni Kranidioti Avenue very close to Carlsberg Brewery.

Easy access to Nicosia-Limassol highway (only 200 metres).

Loading bays for warehouses and parking space for more than 40 cars. Hidden fuel tank plus car mechanics station.

For more information please call 99218866

FOR SALE Semi-detached house in Archangelos area split level on a hill, no houses in front, 3 big bedrooms, 2 big bathrooms and TV room big lounge & dining area, fireplace, fitted kitchen, 40 sq.m. store room, C/H, A/C, solar.

For information call: 99496541

41 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Advertiser

FOR PAPHIAKOS ANIMAL WELFARE SOS HELPLINE, 24 HOUR MEDICAL EMERGENCY SERVICE - CALL 99655581 CONTACT DETAILS FOR PAPHIAKOS. Paphiakos & C.C.P. Animal Welfare Education/Information Centre, No. 12 Dedalos Building, 8049 Kato Paphos PO Box 61272 8132 Kato Paphos

ALL SAINTS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH (ENGLISH) Sunday Divine Liturgy 8-10am. Followed by Fellowship hour (coffee) Services are now being held at the underground Chapel of All Saints of Cyprus at St. Panteleimonos Church Makedonitissa Archangelos (Engomi) For more info please contact Fr. Joseph Coleman Tel. 99938924

Web. www.cyprusanimalwelfare.com www.facebook/paphiakos Email info@cyprusanimalwelfare.com Larnaca Emergency Service - The contact point for animal emergencies in Larnaca is Maria at the Paphiakos Animal Welfare Charity Shop, telephone 24623494 or 99325897 PAPHIAKOS NEW CHARITYSHOP/T.ROOMS NOW OPEN IN PEYIA. T ROOMS NOW OPEN (next to Peyia Police Station) Volunteers and donations needed please contact Suzanne 99151996 for further information.

STOP, SHOP AND GIVE TO THE ANIMALS! ALL DONATIONS ARE WELCOME AT OUR CHARITY SHOPS!!!!!

NOW OPEN !!!

BOOKSHOP/INFORMATION CENTRE/T-SHOP IN POLIS CONTACT JUDY 99223572 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND DETAILS. SEE THE WEBSITE FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION OR TELEPHONE 26953496 PAPHIAKOS & C.C.P. BOOK EXCHANGE SHOP TREMITHOUSA Paphiakos Book Exchange Shop, Tremithousa. Special Tuesday sales held on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. For more information Tel 99771763/99283467 PAPHIAKOS & C.C.P. ANIMAL WELFARE Registered Charity No 1529 Contact our shops and we can take your clutter The Charity Shops are located at: Shop No.1 Agapinoros Street, Kato Paphos Shop No.2 Ap Pavlou Avenue, Kato Paphos Shop No.3 Gr. Afxentiou Avensia Court 3 Larnaca Shop No.4 9 Ayiou Ioanni Street 3061 Limassol Our shops are always happy to receive your unwanted goods!

SORROW IS WHAT PAPHIAKOS IS ALL ABOUT!!! UPDATE PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE OR FACEBOOK FOR THE STORY OF SORROW. EVERY MEMBER OF OUR CLINIC WEPT FOR THIS POOR DOG. PAPHIAKOS ARE DETERMINED THE FUTURE WILL BE BRIGHTER AFTER THE CRUELTY AND TRAUMA. Sorrow is progressing well but will need further surgery. If you can help with donations to assist us to bring Sorrow to full health please contact the clinic on 00357 26946461. www.cyprusanimalwelfare.com PAPHIAKOS CAR BOOT SALE EVERY SATURDAY at the Ambassador Restaurant and outside in the grounds at Paphiakos. Free parking. Sellers from 7am, buyers from 8am. For information & bookings please call MIKE on 96702600.

PAPHIAKOS & C.C.P. ANIMAL WELFARE URGENTLY NEEDS PASTA TO HELP FEED THE DOGS AND SOFT FOOD FOR ALL THE CATS. DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT THE CLINIC. PLEASE SPONSOR AN ANIMAL OR BECOME A MEMBER TO ENSURE PAPHIAKOS CAN CONTINUE WIH THEIR NECESSARY WORK. Telephone Jan 26946461 ex 114 or 97614008

CHEMISTS NICOSIA SUNDAY 22/07/2012 M. Paphiti, Strovolos & Ay Mamantos Ave, Kato Lakatameia. Tel: 22324114, 22323943 (H) K. Solomou, 49E Z Archangelou Ave, Strovolos. Tel: 22357047, 22354816 L. Froso, 69 Larnaca Ave, Aglandjia.

Tel: 22338941, 22338941 (H) M. Papadopoulou, 38C Them. Dervis St. Tel: 22676936, 22338998 I. Papaioakovou, 60 Democratic Ave, Strovolos. Tel: 22450644, 22876916 (H) LIMASSOL C. Constantinou, 2 Amathountos Ave, Tel: 25316464, 25339609 P. Antoniades 30 Ayias Zonis Tel: 25358034, 25356371 (H) Ch. Charalambides 18 P. Tsirou Tel: 25383878, 25332103 (H) LARNACA V. Flouris, St. Lazaros Square. Tel: 24628331, 24667037 (H) Kaloudi Christiana-Ekavi, 26 Ayion Anargiron Ave Tel: 24624555, 96473516 PAPHOS P. Savvides, 61 E. Pallikarides St. Tel: 26933568, 26934034 (H) PARALIMNI M. Klepiniotou, 16 Agiou Georgiou, Tel: 23820422, 23822330 (H)

NICOSIA MONDAY 23/07/2012 G. Hadjigregoriou, 27A Omirou Ave. Tel: 22673594, 22510112 (H) A. Ttooulas, 22D Kennedy Ave. Tel: 22763805, 22377349(H) A. Panayi, 15B Androcleous St. Tel: 22763575, 22317370 (H) E. Fesia, 173C Tseriou Ave. Tel: 22321499, 22325995 (H) N. Spanos, 1D Thessaloniki St, Anglanja. Tel: 22337761, 22444437 (H) LIMASSOL K. Makridou, 66A Miltonos, Tel: 25712790, 25746954 (H) Ch. Agamemnonos 131 Vas. Konstantinou Tel: 25870748, 25737455 (H) P. Vassilopoulou, 6C John Kennedy, Tel: 25585840, 25563810 LARNACA E. Constantinidou , 64 Z. Kitiea St. Tel: 24655129, 24657435 (H) A. D. Koulouma, 16A Larnaca.

Limassol Rd. Tel: 24642333, 24661155 (H) PAPHOS C.P. Panayiotou,83 Ellados Ave. Tel: 26931339, 26653684 (H) PARALIMNI A. Mavroyiannou, 216 Gr. Dighenis

St. Tel: 23828880, 23829202 (H)

CHURCHES

DOCTORS ON DUTY NICOSIA Pathologist: Doros Polidorou, Tel: 99727817 Gynaecologist: Marios Eleftheriou, Tel: 22469000, 99433384 Urologist: Achilleas Corellis, Tel: 70007773, 99562642 Dentist: Christos Sclavos, Tel: 22818218, 99513709 LIMASSOL Pathologist: Christos Christodoulou, Tel.: 99454612, 25338618 Surgeon: Christodoulos Christofides Tel: 25750308 Neuro-Surgeon: Michalakis Spirou, Tel: 99624939 Paediatric: Christos Christophi, Tel: 25385858, 99385855 Paediatric Surgeon: Elka Christofi, Tel: 25762586, 99306678 Doctor: Michalakis Charalambous, Tel: 99616436

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF AGIOS ARSENIOS, LIMASSOL (near Tsirion Stadium) The Orthodox Liturgy in English Saturday, 4 February at 8:30 am For information please contact: Father M. Spanou at 99 – 401365 (msspanou@googlemail.com)

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF ST ANDREW AND ST JOHN THE BAPTIST MESA GEITONIA, LIMASSOL The Orthodox Liturgy in English served fortnightly on Saturdays at 9.00 am. We also hold a Discussion Group every Thursday evening at 7.30 pm For information please call Fr. Christopher Klitou Mobile: 99957144 Fax: 25710318 You can email us at: klitoux@logos.cy.net or visit our website: www.christopherklitou.com

Family oriented evangelical church Contemporary Christian Worship Sunday 10am (Holy Communion - 1st Sunday of the month) Sunday School (Juniors and Teens) Outreach and Evangelism Bible Studies

Tel. 99 293489, 99 279960 Email: immanuel.church.nicosia@gmail.com

DEUTSCHE GOTTESDIENSTE IN ZYPERN

LARNAKA COMMUNITY CHURCH APHRODITE STREET, LARNAKA 10.00 AM MORNING SERVICE and SUNDAY SCHOOL For more details ring Fred 24-365152

Nikosia: Am 1. und 3. Samstag im Monat in der St. Paul’s Cathedral um 18 Uhr Limassol: Am 2. Sonntag im Monat im Gemeindehaus in Germasogeia um 11 Uhr Am 4. Sonntag im Monat in der St. Barnabaskirche um 18 Uhr Paphos: Am 2. Samstag in der Kirche an der Paulussaeule um 16 Uhr Agia Napa: Am 4. Sonntag im Monat im Hof des Klosters um 9.30 Uhr

Open Door Baptist Church

Näheres Informationen durch Pfarrer Dr. Herold, Tel 25-317092 oder im Internet www.ev-kirche-zypern.de

9 Larnakos Street Katholiki Area Limassol Sundays: 9:45, 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM Wednesdays: 7:30 PM 25 751193 or 99 758729 www.cbm-odbc.org

GRACE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH Invites you to COME AND EXPERIEBNCE THE LOVE OF GOD WITH US Int. Christian Business Fellowship Meeting Centre Sundays: 10.00am Sunday School 11.00 am Main Service (Dine with us centre services) Wednesdays: Prayer meeting 6pm Address: To Arsinois Str., 1010 Nicosia (Next to Western Union Office to KISA) Contact: 99988900 or 97667932.

VISITORS ESPECIALLY WELCOME!!!

THE REFORMED CHURCH OF LIMASSOL Clear exposition of the Bible in the presence of God, and relevant to our lives.

Our Sunday services start at 10:30 am sharp, and the Wednesday Bible discussion at 7 pm.

International Evangelical Church (Reformed) is located at 352 St. Andrew’s Street. 1½ blocks from Starbucks / Fat Boy, and 1 block from the Municipal Gardens, Zoo. For further information call Steve at 99384742, or email: iee.limassol@gmail.com All are welcome!

NICOSIA CHRISTIAN CENTRE 10 PINDOU STR, ENGOMI, NICOSIA, TEL. 22464375 SERVICES: SUNDAY 10AM, WEDNESDAY 8PM St Barnabas’ Anglican Church 153 Leontiou A Street Limassol www.stbarnabas-cyprus.com Telephone: 25362713 - All welcome HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH, PAPHOS GATE, NICOSIA Sunday Masses: Saturdays 6.30 pm, Sundays 8.00am, 9.30am & 6.30pm Weekday Masses: 6.30 pm Monday to Friday Tel: 22662132 Email: holcross@logos.cy.net

GRACE CHURCH, LARNACA 8 Ayiou Neofytou St Sundays 10 a.m.

Also Midweek Meetings Details: Colin 24530700

The Anglican Church of Paphos Ayia Kyriaki (St. Paul by the Pillar) Sunday 8.15am Holy Eucharist 6.00pm Sung Eucharist 4th Sunday 6.00pm Choral Evensong Wednesday 9.00am Holy Eucharist 3rd Wednesday (BCP) St. Stephen’s, Tala 1st & 3rd Sunday 11.00 am Holy Eucharist 2nd & 4th Sunday 11.00am Morning Worship St. Luke’s, Prodromi 1st & 5th Sunday 9.30am Morning Worship 2nd , 3rd & 4th Sunday 9.30am Holy Eucharist 1st & 3rd Wednesday 9.30am Holy Eucharist 1st Sunday 6.00 p.m. Peace & Wholeness with Holy Eucharist 4th Sunday every quarter 9.30 am Holy Eucharist from BPC Church Office: 26-953044 Fax: 26-952486 Email: anglicancofp@cytanet.com.cy for directions to each church

St Helena’s Anglican Church, Larnaca St Helena’s Court, Grigoris Afx Sunday Service: Holy Communion 9.30 am ALL WELCOME Tel:24651327 office@sainthelenas.com

International EVANGELICAL CHURCH (Reformed) Limassol 352 St. Andrew’s Street (1½ blocks from Starbucks/Fat Boy) Sunday worship 10:30am Wednesday Bible Discussion 7pm For info: 99384742 ALL ARE WELCOME

42 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Motoring Compiled by Rosie Ogden Mileage tracker app counts the cost of business travel A NEW free-to-download Audi app for the iPhone is set to make business travel a little less taxing by tracking journeys via GPS and precisely calculating the business expense they generate.

Available from iTunes, the Audi Mileage Tracker

app (left) enables business users to enter the amount normally claimed per mile or kilometre, and to apply this to a particular journey, which is logged in real time using GPS mapping.

At the end of the journey the exact amount owed as a business expense is re-

corded, and can be transferred to a spreadsheet showing all the applicable trips taken over a given period. This can then be emailed to a home or business computer for expense claims.

Drivers can programme the app with journeys

they take regularly and recall them from the journey log, or use the start/ stop function each time they leave the office. The app can even point them in the direction of their nearest Audi Centre if they need expert assistance. As the exact route taken is

tracked, regardless of diversions due to roadworks or congestion, the calculation provided is always absolutely accurate.

What’s the betting that, before long, all vehicles sold for fleet use will have something similar builtin?

EU proposes further CO2 reductions from cars, vans Consumers will save approximately €30 billion per year in fuel costs THE European Commission this week put forward proposals to implement targets that will considerably reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from new cars and light commercial vehicles by 2020.

The proposals will cut average emissions from new cars to 95 grams of CO2 per km in 2020; that’s from 135.7g in 2011 and a mandatory target of 130g in 2015. Emissions from vans will be reduced to 147g CO2/km in 2020 from 181.4g in 2010 (the latest year for which figures are available) and a mandatory target of 175g in 2017.

The mandatory targets for 2020 are already envisaged in existing legislation but require implementation.

Connie Hedegaard, EU Commissioner for Climate Action, said: “With our proposals we are not only protecting the climate and saving consumers money. We are also boosting innovation and competitiveness in the European automotive industry. And we will create substantial numbers of jobs as a result. This is a clear win-win situation for everyone. This is one more important step towards a competitive, lowcarbon economy. More CO2 reductions beyond 2020 need to be prepared and these will be considered in consultation with stakeholders.”

The Commission’s analysis shows that the 2020 targets

Each new car will on average save its owner around €340 in fuel costs in the first year, and an estimated total of €2,904£3,836 over the car’s lifetime (13 years), as compared with the 2015 target are achievable, economically sound and cost effective: the technology is readily available, its cost is substantially lower than previously thought and its implementation should ‘boost employment and GDP and benefit consumers and industry’.

Each new car will on average save its owner around

€340 in fuel costs in the first year, and an estimated total of €2904-3836 over the car’s lifetime (13 years), as compared with the 2015 target.

For vans the average fuel cost saving is estimated at around €400 in the first year and €3363-4564 over their 13year lifetime.

Overall, consumers will

Beetle fans from across Europe gather on the shores of the Baltic WITH their song ‘1000 Kilometer bis zum Meer’ (1000 kilometres to the sea), the German pop rock group Luxuslärm have made it into the top ten radio charts across Germany.

Whether it’s because of the song, or due to the fact that, on 18 August, the band from Iserlohn is providing the motto for the eighth Beetle Sunshine Tour of the same name, remains to be seen, but that’s when fans of all ‘round’ Volkswagens

(Käfer, New Beetle and Beetle) travel from across Europe to the shores of the Baltic Sea near Travemünde.

With more than 2,000 visitors expected, the Sunshine Tour is the largest private gathering of Beetle ‘friends’and fans worldwide.

On a second stage, an automotive duo will make its debut: the new Beetle Fender Edition has a 400Watt sound system, created in co-operation with

the Fender guitar and amplifier brand, while the Beetle Sport with R-Line package will be a new addition to the Beetle range as of late summer.

The Beetle Sunshine Tour begins at the Volkswagen Centre in Lübeck at midday on 18 August. and then heads to Brügmanngarten in Travemünde, where the programme kicks off at 2pm. Beetle drivers who are interested in joining the fun should visit www. beetle-sunshinetour.de

save around €30bn per year in fuel costs and it is estimated that the targets could increase EU GDP by €12bn annually and spending on employment by some €9bn a year. The proposals would in total save 160 million tonnes of oil – worth around €70bn at today’s prices - and around 420 million tonnes of

CO2 in the period to 2030.

The European automotive industry is considered a global technology leader, thanks largely to its substantial investment in innovation - combined with a demanding home market. The Commission’s impact assessment of the proposals shows the sector has a large capacity

for innovation and enjoys a substantial comparative advantage over competitors.

The EU says the 2020 targets ‘offer a clear and stable environment for investment, and will further stimulate innovation by vehicle producers and component suppliers, further strengthening the EU industry’s competitive advantage’. The introduction of similar CO2 or fuel efficiency standards in third countries would, they say, increase demand for CO2-reducing technologies and more efficient cars made in Europe.

The proposals will be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council for discussion and adoption.

The proposals would amend two existing Regulations establishing binding requirements for manufacturers to meet the 2015 mandatory target for cars and the 2017 target for vans. CO2 emissions from new vehicles are monitored annually.

The proposals are another step towards meeting the EU’s goal of cutting overall greenhouse gas emissions to 20% below 1990 levels by 2020 and moving towards decarbonising the transport sector, in line with the EU’s climate change policy and the Transport White Paper.

Cars and vans together account for around 15% of EU CO2 emissions, including emissions from fuel supply.

43 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Sport Wimbledon gets the Olympic touch, Murray dreams of gold

No stunt bike but animals remain safe

All-England club to host Olympic tennis again after 104-year absence

By Alan Baldwin

By Kylie MacLellan THE last time Olympic tennis was played on the All England Club’s grass courts in south west London, Britain walked away with all of the gold medals and a handful of silver and bronze to boot.

Expectations are not that high 104 years later as the Olympics return to Wimbledon, but a medal for British number one Andy Murray could help ease the pain of the country’s long-suffering tennis fans, whose hopes of an end to the 76-year wait for a home-grown champion were dashed when Murray lost to the inimitable Roger Federer in this month’s final.

“Andy’s chances have increased,” Team GB’s tennis leader Paul Hutchins told Reuters, adding that the shorter matches - best of three sets until the men’s final which will be the usual best of five - could prompt unexpected outcomes.

“There can be more opportunities for surprise results when it is best of three.”

The returning Wimbledon champions, however, will be burning with motivation to notch a second summer triumph in London.

Swiss master Federer and American Serena Williams return to the grass courts aiming to claim an Olympic singles gold that would add a missing line to their prodigious resumes.

Despite the withdrawal through injury of champion Rafa Nadal of Spain, the

Pressure: British hopes again rest with Andy Murray, who lost in the Wimbledon final to Roger Federer pressence of Serbia’s Novak Djokovic along with Federer, should ensure that the men’s competition will be fierce at the top, but odds on the fourth-ranked Murray have narrowed since his strong Wimbledon showing.

“In the men’s singles there are probably only four or five that could possibly win it.

There is such a high standard,” said Hutchins, whose son Ross will compete for Britain in men’s doubles.

Big serving Serena Williams is favourite in the women’s

event, but world number one Belarusian Victoria Azarenka, Russia’s Maria Sharapova and Wimbledon runnerup Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland also rate as serious contenders.

The singles field is the strongest ever, with 18 of the world’s top 20 players competing in the men’s and women’s draws. There is also extra gold on offer, with mixed doubles appearing for the first time since 1924 in addition to men’s and women’s doubles.

The 1948 London Olympics did not have tennis on the medals menu, as it was not on the Games programme between 1928 and 1984.

While the setting will be familiar, the Olympics promises to be a different show from traditional Wimbledon.

“We are very fortunate for the tennis to be held at the club ... it is iconic,” said London 2012 tennis competition manager Clare Wood, a former player who has represented Britain at three Olympics.

“We don’t want to reinvent anything ... we are just going to add our own touch and flavour to it.”

Gone will be the players’ classic white attire and the demure navy blue Ralph Lauren uniforms of officials and ball boys and girls.

Instead, competitors will take to the Olympic-branded courts in their national colours, officials will sport a splash of turquoise and ball boys and girls, selected from local schools, will wear bold purple and red.

Spanish athletes mock garish Games uniforms

Fashion faux pas? Gold medal winning canoeist Saul Craviotto wasn’t too impressed after posting pics on Twitter

SPAIN’S garish red and yellow Olympic uniforms have not gone down well with some athletes preparing to head off to London, and have become the butt of jokes on social media networks.

Photos posted on Twitter by gold medal winning canoeist Saul Craviotto and hockey player Alex Fabregas have been doing the rounds, reopening a debate that first surfaced when Spanish designers criticised the outfits in May. “At home trying on the Olympic clothes. Best I don’t comment, I will leave it up to you...” Craviotto said on his account while posing with full kit including baseball cap and backpack.

“Olympic outfit, there aren’t enough adjectives,” Fabregas, who won a silver in Beijing, said alongside his photo taken in their official

tracksuit.

The Russian firm Bosco, who also designed the Russian and Ukrainian kits, have provided the outfits free of charge in a deal with the Spanish Olympic Committee (COE).

“The outfits are what we have, we cannot change them now, and were decided upon more than a year and a half ago,” president Alejandro Blanco told AS. “When all the athletes appear in their uniforms the whole world will applaud and Spain as well.”

In a separate interview with ABC Punto Radio, Blanco said, “When you measure the difference between paying one and a half million of public money and free clothes, there is no discussion.”

Spanish designers have expressed their indignation that no national companies

were employed to clothe their own athletes, and said the designs did not present a good image for the country’s fashion industry.

They cited nations such as the United States, Britain and Italy who had chosen high-profile designers such as Ralph Lauren, Stella McCartney or Armani as examples.

COE dismissed their arguments saying that no Spanish company had stepped forward to offer their services.

“Looking forward to seeing Feliciano Lopez wearing the official Olympic uniform. He’ll never have worn anything so ugly in his life,” former tennis world number one Carlos Moya said on Twitter.

Lopez replied: “It’s loud, very loud. But it’s what we have, man. Spain is different and it always will be.”

A SHORT stunt bike segment has been cut from the Olympic opening ceremony but the cows, ducks and sheep will still have their moment in the limelight.

Organisers dismissed British media reports this week that the ceremony, orchestrated by Oscar-winning film maker Danny Boyle and due to be watched by a global television audience of a billion people, had been trimmed because of fears over security and transport snarls.

Jackie Brock-Doyle, director of communications for Games organisers LOCOG, told reporters that rehearsals had been running over the projected three to three-and-a-half-hour slot and the show needed tightening.

“This is like any other piece of film that you would make,” she said. “Things end up on the cutting room floor. Also, a huge amount of the rehearsals have been done in the pouring rain so it is a matter of tightening.

It’s not cutting big chunks.

The ceremony, which is due to open with the ringing of the largest harmonically tuned bell in the world, is costing some 27 million pounds to make and has been titled ‘Isles of Wonder’.

It will include 10,000 adult volunteer performers while Olympic athletes will walk around a meadow made up of mini fields separated by hedges and a river.

The animal cast list includes 12 horses, three cows, two goats, 10 chickens, nine geese, a flock of 70 sheep and three sheep dogs.

Brock-Doyle said the scene that had been cut involved “stunt biking. Jumps. Exciting stunt bike stuff” and would have lasted three to four minutes. There was no threat to the animals.

She said Transport for London were keeping the trains running until 2.30am local time, and security was not the issue as people would go through bag checks only on the way in.

The Olympic stadium, where Queen Elizabeth will open the Games on Friday in the presence of more than 100 world leaders and where the cauldron will be lit after the final leg of a torch relay around Britain, seats 80,000.

The ceremony starts at 2100 local and is scheduled to end between midnight and 0030.

“The bit that no-one ever knows is really how long the athletes’ parade will be because no-one actually knows until the day how many athletes are going to come out,” said BrockDoyle.

44 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Sport Brazilian champion predicts more medals

Latynina roots for Phelps to break her record

By Pedro Redig

Most decorated Olympian of all time will cheer on US swimmer in medal quest

By Gennady Fyodorov SOVIET gymnast Larisa Latynina, the most decorated Olympian of all time, will cheer American swimmer Michael Phelps in his bid to break her record at the London Games.

“I wouldn’t be bitter if he did,” Latynina, now a sprightly 77, told Reuters in an interview. “As they say, records are made to be broken. He is a great champion and a very nice young man.

“If anything, I can only wish him well because I’m a huge admirer of his talent. I just enjoy watching him swim.”

Latynina’s eyes lit up as she proudly recalled her own triumphs.

“I remember just about everything. Each Olympics was a unique experience in itself, each one had its own things to remember,” said Latynina, who competed in Melbourne (1956), Rome (1960) and Tokyo (1964), winning a record 18 medals, nine of them gold.

Phelps, who has 16 medals, 14 of them gold, from his two previous Games, is likely to better Latynina’s medal haul in London, where he is due to compete in seven events.

Latynina, who met the American for the first time at a sponsors’ event in New York this year, was certain

he would overtake her.

“I have no doubt about it.

He already has 16 and should win at least three more in London,” said the Russian, who plans to attend the 2012 Games as a guest of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).

“If you talk about great athletes, I can’t wait to see this guy Usain Bolt run in London. He is just something else, out of this world,” she said of the Jamaican sprinter.

“Or take Roger Federer for example. Aside from great results one can only marvel at his grace, dignity and style on the tennis court. He is just a great example of a great athlete.”

Asked to name the greatest athlete, Latynina paused for a few seconds, taking a deep breath.

“If you want to know the greatest of all time the first thing you look for is how many medals they have won,” she said.

“Of course, some would not agree because many athletes just have one chance (in each Olympics) to win a medal - in boxing or wrestling for example.

“So the medal count itself does not give a true meaning of who is the greatest but at the same time, it gives you a good indication.

“For example, (Soviet fig-

ure skater) Irina Rodnina has competed at three Olympics and she has three golds. But I also took part in three Olympics and brought home gold medals from each one. It’s hard to judge.”

Latynina was quick to point out, however, that she also coached the Soviet women’s gymnastics team from 1967 to 1977, helping her charges to win 10 Olympic gold medals along the way.

“I was a head coach of our team at three Olympics and my girls won 10 gold medals,” she said.

“I can proudly say that I’ve played a part in winning 19 Olympic gold medals if you add up my nine with their 10. Phelps has 14 so far, so he has a long way to go to catch me,” she added with a smile.

The Ukraine-born gymnast also has 14 world championship medals, nine of them gold.

Latynina, who nowadays spends most of her time taking care of her vegetable garden at her dacha outside Moscow and playing with her great-grandchildren, did not think she was much more talented than her rivals.

“If anything, it was probably my desire and a will to win. I had that competitive drive in me,” she said. “I never ever liked losing. Simply hated it.”

Michael Phelps (top), who has 16 medals, 14 of them gold, from his two previous Games, is likely to better Larisa Latynina’s medal haul of 18, nine of them gold

Diver Daley will dedicate any medal to late father

By Duncan Bech

Tom Daley competed in Beijing four years ago as a 14-yearold in order to gain experience. He now wants a medal

TOM Daley will dedicate any medal he wins at London 2012 to the memory of his inspirational father Robert.

Robert was instrumental in helping Daley establish himself as one of the world’s top divers before he lost a long battle with brain cancer in May last year.

The 18-year-old keeps his dad’s ashes in his bedroom and views him as the greatest influence on a career that will enter the stratosphere should he strike gold in either of his two events.

“Winning a medal would make all the struggles that I’ve had worthwhile,” Daley told Press Association Sport.

“It’s been my dream since a very young age to compete at an Olympics. I did that in

Beijing for the experience, but now I want a good performance.

“I’m doing it for myself and my dad. It was both our dreams from a very young age.

“I always wanted to do it and dad was so supportive of everything. It would make it extra special to do it for him.

“I’ve got to try and win the medal first, but definitely I’d dedicate it to him.

“He’s the person who helped me and gave me all the inspiration that I’ve needed. He taught me all the lessons in life that I needed.”

Daley is competing in two events starting with the men’s 10m synchronised platform alongside partner Peter Waterfield on July 30.

Nearly two weeks later, on the penultimate day of the Games, he will aim for gold

in the individual 10m platform - a standard he reached in the European championships in May. “For me it’s about doing the best six dives that I possibly can,” he said.

“My dream is to win an Olympic gold medal, or any Olympic medal, but dreams and reality are two different things.

“Diving is such an on-theday sport that no one knows what will happen because there are so many divers who can win.

“For me it’s about focusing on the process of each individual dive rather than the outcome.”

China’s world number one Qiu Bo will provide the greatest threat to Daley’s hopes of securing individual gold and the Plymouth Diving Club product insists victory will be decided by who best handles the pressure.

OLYMPIC 50 metres freestyle champion Cesar Cielo predicted that Brazil would leave the London Olympics with more medals than the 10 they took home from Beijing four years ago.

Cielo, women’s long jumper Maurren Maggi and the women’s volleyball team won gold medals in Beijing.

The 25 year-old, who will compete in the 50 and 100 metres and the 4x100 medley, said Brazil should expect their medal tally to increase because of better support and the feel-good factor from being the next country to stage the Olympics in 2016.

“We are capable of winning many more medals than we did in Beijing,” he told reporters at Brazil’s training camp at Crystal Palace.

It is the first time Brazil has an exclusive base for the Olympics and Cielo is one of more than 100 athletes training in south London.

Cielo said he was not worried about the bad weather that has blighted the British summer.

“Sao Paulo is pretty much like this too. It is grey most of the time, you know I was expecting a little more sun,” he said with a smile.

Cielo tested positive for a banned substance in 2011 but escaped with a warning after claiming the banned diuretic detected by the test was the result of crosscontamination.

His appeal was upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which accepted the banned diuretic that had been detected was not intended to improve performance.

“I am here to swim fast, nothing more to talk about,” he said when asked about the incident.

“My main goal is to represent my country in the best way possible and to get a gold medal in the 50 and try my best in the 100.”

The Brazilian said his world records in the 50 metres (20.91 seconds) and in the 100 (46.91) as well as his gold medal from Beijing counted for nothing now.

“It does not serve for much.

In the Olympics everything goes back to square one.

The world champion or the world record holder or the ninth last year are fighting for the same medal and you have got to go there like it was the first time,” Cielo said.

Cielo’s team mate Felipe Franca won gold in the 50 metres breast stroke in the 2011 world championships in Shanghai and is predicted by Sports Illustrated to win a silver in the 100 metres breaststroke. But the confident 25 year-old is aiming for more in London.

“I have been training a long time for this so, gold has been my main ambition,” he said.

45 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Sport Bryant fears size matters in bid for gold

By Toby Davis

Kobe is a five-time NBA champ and Olympic gold medallist

IN a sport dominated by giants, Kobe Bryant fears a lack of height could be the downfall of the United States as they bid to retain their Olympic basketball title at the London Games.

The US won their third straight warm-up match on Thursday, beating Britain 11878 in Manchester, and have now jetted off to Barcelona to face Spain and Argentina.

They are clear favourites to win gold in London, but they

are not unbeatable, according to Bryant.

“We definitely have weaknesses that teams can take advantage of,” he told reporters. “So, we’ll get a good look at that.

“It’s size. It’s size and teams being able to slow the game down and work the ball inside on us, and we have to do a good job of taking care of our defensive pressure.”

Bryant also slammed the NBA for considering an age limit that would prevent many of the world’s top players taking part in future Olympics.

NBA Commissioner David Stern has spoken about the possibility of limiting participation in the Olympic basketball tournament to players aged 23 and under following the London Games.

“It’s a stupid idea, stupid,” Bryant, 33, told reporters. “It should be a player’s choice.

NBA team owners are understood to be concerned about the greater potential for injuries and fatigue suffered by the top players while they represent their national teams during the league’s off season.

But Bryant, a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and a member of the US team that won gold at the 2008 Olympics, feels anything but the world’s best players is not acceptable when it comes to international competition.

“The Olympics is really about putting the best athletes out there to compete against the best. That’s what it’s about, put the best out there,” said Bryant. “From a basketball standpoint, an age limit would lessen the Olympics, absolutely.”

Organisers: Games cauldron lighting will be ‘wow’ moment

Torch relay strides through London

Redgrave and Thompson the main contenders

TEAM GB triple jumper Phillips Idowu has carried the Olympic torch in Stratford, east London, saying he was “full of emotion” to do so.

The athlete’s voice cracked as he told the crowd: “To carry the Olympic torch in my home Games in front of my own people... you guys have done me proud”.

He added “Hopefully in a couple of weeks’ time I can make you guys proud.”

Hackney-born Idowu, whose recent form has been in doubt, carried the flame a stone’s throw from the Olympic Park.

The torch was on the first day of its week-long tour of London in the final countdown to the Games.

The relay travelled through five of the six Olympic boroughs yesterday as it passed from Greenwich to Waltham Forest, going through Newham, Tower Hamlets and Hackney on the way.

The flame’s circuit of the capital will see it pass through each of the city’s 33 local authority areas and finish at the opening ceremony on Friday.

It spent Friday night at the Tower of London, having arrived in the capital in dramatic fashion at the Tower that evening, where it was abseiled from a helicopter by a Royal Marine.

The relay’s youngest and oldest runners were among the day’s 143 torchbearers, who also included footballer Fabrice Muamba and rapper Dizzee Rascal.

Muamba carried the flame as the last torchbearer of the day.

The 24-year-old was playing for Bolton against Tottenham on March 17 when he had a cardiac arrest and collapsed on the pitch.

He was discharged from hospital on April 16, and has not ruled out the possibility of playing professional football again.

The flame will be carried by a total of 8,000 people during its 8,000 mile, 70day journey to the opening ceremony.

By Alan Baldwin THE lighting of the Olympic cauldron at Friday’s opening ceremony will be a ‘wow moment’ and a decision on who does it is all but made, British Olympic Association (BOA) chief executive Andy Hunt said yesterday.

The identity of the lighter, and even where the cauldron will be, is a closelyguarded secret - and it has not always been one individual - while the criteria for deciding who it should be is the subject of continuing public debate.

Hunt, the Team GB chef de mission and one of those involved in making the decision with organisers LOCOG, refused to divulge any details that might lead to identification of any individual.

“It’s a joint decision and discussions have taken place over quite some time,” he told reporters at a briefing. “We will see the outcome in just a few days’ time.

“The ceremonies committee, which is made up of Danny Boyle and the ceremonies team, will make a recommendation and have made recommendations we can choose to support or not,” he added.

Hunt said the debate was “ongoing” but there was a “mutually acceptable solution” and he was sure the outcome would be a proud moment for all.

“All I can say is I think it will be a ‘wow’ moment and will bring together both of those dimensions,” added Hunt when asked whether

Sir Steve Redgrave (left), who won rowing golds at five consecutive Games from 1984 to 2000 carries the Olympic torch on the River Thames, while Daley Thompson won double decathlon gold and is a close friend of Sebastian Coe the decision would be a case of honouring sporting achievement or going for a big impact.

Daley Thompson and Steve Redgrave are two of the main contenders for the honour next week.

Redgrave won rowing golds at five consecutive Olympics from 1984 to 2000 and is the bookmakers’ favourite, while Thompson won double decathlon gold and is a close friend of London 2012 chief and double Olympic 1,500 metres champion Sebastian Coe. Both men will have already carried the torch on the relay before the final day.

Double Athens gold medallist Kelly Holmes is second favourite with bookmakers

Ladbrokes.

Former England football captain David Beckham was touted at one point but has been left out of the British Olympic team and has

said the honour deserves to go to an Olympian who has won gold medals.

Roger Bannister, who in 1954 became the first man to run the mile in less than four minutes, is another name that has been mentioned. He never won Olympic gold, however.

The cauldron at the last Olympics to be held in London, in 1948, was lit by littleknown former Cambridge University medical student John Mark who was chosen largely for his looks.

Matthew Pinsent, a fourtime British rowing Olympic gold medallist, said not knowing who will light the cauldron, added to the sense of excitement.

“I don’t see why we need

to name them now,” he told Reuters by telephone. “We need to have some mystery about the opening ceremony, otherwise it’s like watching a magic trick and knowing what’s going to happen before the magic.”

How many of the 542 British athletes will attend the opening ceremony remains an open question, given the lateness of the hour and the need to be ready for competition at the weekend.

“It won’t be a full delegation but I think it will be a good attendance, round 50 per cent of the team,” said Hunt.

British athletes will vote for their flag-bearer, with the result to be announced tomorrow.

46 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Sport

Wenger determined to keep wantaway striker van Persie

We’ve learned from last season, says Fergie

Arsenal desperate to fend off suitors

By Simon Stone

ARSENE Wenger has reiterated his desire to keep star striker Robin van Persie at Arsenal.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson on Friday revealed his side tabled a bid to bring the Dutch striker to Old Trafford.

Although the sum is said to have fallen well short of Wenger’s estimation - believed to be around £30 million - United revealing their interest could further unsettle van Persie, who has also been linked with Manchester City and Serie A outfit Juventus.

His existing deal at Emirates Stadium expires next summer and Wenger is desperate for the 28-year-old to remain a Gunner.

“For me, van Persie is one of the best strikers in the world, if not the best, and my desire is to keep him at the club.” he told Arsenal Player.

“As for the rest I will do what is in the best interests of Arsenal Football Club.

That, at the moment, is where we are. There is not a lot more to say than that.”

Van Persie won both Professional Footballers’ Association and Football Writers’ Association player of the year prizes in recognition of his phenomenal 36-goal contribution for Arsenal in the 2011/12 campaign.

Press Association Sport

Please don’t go: Gunners boss Arsene Wenger wants star striker Robin van Persie to stay with the club

has learned he did not travel to Asia on Friday on Arsenal’s pre-season tour, although the Gunners were keen to stress his non-involvement was due to the striker having only trained for four days since returning from holiday.

The saga is shaping up to be a carbon copy of those that saw Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri both sold last summer - something which

dragged on towards the tail end of the transfer window.

But Wenger is convinced that van Persie will continue to give his all for Arsenal - regardless of whether he leaves the club.

“Robin was an exceptional leader last year,” he said.

“But we know how much we had to fight to come third because we missed out at the start of the season. After seven games we had lost four

and we have learned that for us it is vital to focus on the start of the season rather than on any transfers.

“If the transfers happen, they happen. As long as you are at the club you give your best for the club and that is the only pride you can have as a football player and as a manager.

“As long as you are somewhere you give your best every day for that club. If

it changes, it changes. I am convinced that Robin is like that, he is completely focused every day on his job.

He loves football, he loves the game and as long as he is here he will do that.”

Arsenal have already signed two new strikers in Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud but are also said to be lining up Spain star Fernando Llorente were van Persie to leave.

Oscar to wait on Chelsea switch

By Wayne Gardiner

The Internacional playmaker has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge

BRAZIL midfielder Oscar has confirmed he has had a medical with Chelsea, but will delay his decision on whether or not to sign for the Champions League winners until after the Olympics.

The 20-year-old Internacional playmaker has been the subject of intense speculation linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge all summer, with reports suggesting he had undergone a medical earlier in the week.

The player confirmed that himself on Friday night after starring in Brazil’s 2-0 friendly win over Great Britain in Middlesbrough, but was keen to point out that he has not signed a contract with Roberto Di Matteo’s side.

Speaking through an interpreter, Oscar said: “I only had a meeting with the doctor,

nothing else. I didn’t sign any contract yet and I will wait until the end of the Olympic games to decide my future.

“All Brazilian players have this dream. I have, like everybody the dream to play in Europe and the Premier League.”

Oscar joined Internacional from Sao Paulo in 2009 and last summer scored a hat-trick in the Under-20 World Cup final as Brazil beat Portugal.

He told Brazilian reporters he had decided to stay with Internacional earlier in the week, but now seems open to a Chelsea switch.

He was adamant, though, that Olympics remain his primary focus for now.

“It is like a dream for me, participating in the Olympics, it’s so important for my career and I hope to win the gold medal here,” he said.

“I am enjoying, it is not a pressure, I am focused on the

Olympics but want to show the British fans that I can play well here.”

In other news, Shakhtar Donetsk’s Willian is “really upset” that he has been denied a move to Chelsea, but hopes a deal can still be thrashed out.

The Brazil international has shone for the Ukrainian side since joining from Corinthians in 2007, and his form has now attracted the attention of the European champions.

Shakhtar president Rinat Akhmetov has been quoted as saying Willian is available for £23.5million, while coach Mircea Lucescu claimed Chelsea have recently seen a £25.5million offer rejected.

“Regardless of the price, it is clear that the desire is great to play at a club like Chelsea, the champion of the Champions League.

“I am really upset with the board for not letting me leave.”

MANCHESTER United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has vowed there will be no repeat of last season’s European disappointment.

Despite being drawn in what was generally accepted to be one of the easier Champions League groups, the Red Devils failed to make it out, losing to Swiss outfit Basle in their final game when a draw would have been enough to progress.

It was a shattering blow, both in terms of prestige and finance, condemning the club to a loss of income that might have been a factor in the Glazer family pushing forward with their intended initial public offering (IPO) in the United States.

Considering Basle conceded seven to eventual runners-up Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena later in the competition, United’s problems can only be viewed as self-inflicted.

“That definitely won’t happen next season - there is no chance of that,” Ferguson said.

“Over the last few years we have used the group stage as an opportunity to play the youngsters.

“But last season we changed the team too much and it backfired.

“Basle were just an ordinary team and they showed that when they played Bayern.”

For all the transfer talk surrounding Robin van Persie, most United fans would argue another central midfielder is United’s priority.

It is not an observation he refutes, although it is to Michael Carrick that Ferguson is looking for an answer.

“There is no doubt we do have an issue in central midfield because getting a (Paul) Scholes or a Carrick is very difficult these days,” he said.

“Carrick is the key to it,” he said.

“If you look at the central midfielders in the Premier League, he can match up against any of them in terms of quality.

“He can read the game and also play in front of the back four.”

Given those qualities, therefore, it is something of a surprise that the 30-yearold only has 22 England caps to his name.

Selected for the last World Cup, he remained on the bench throughout.

It was a dismal experience for the former Tottenham man and is thought to have played some part in him excusing himself from Euro 2012 duty this summer.

England boss Roy Hodgson abided by that request despite what turned into a chronic shortage of topclass midfielders.

47 SUNDAY MAIL • July 22, 2012

Sport

Brazil are the gold standard, says beaten Pearce

Giggs reveals pride over captaincy

Team GB outclassed by the Samba boys

By Damian Spellman TEAM GB boss Stuart Pearce believes any side which beats Brazil is likely to claim gold at the Olympic Games.

Pearce saw his men succumb to a 2-0 defeat by the South Americans at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium on Friday night which was far more comprehensive than the scoreline suggests.

But he always expected a tough encounter and is confident there is more to come from GB before they launch their campaign against Senegal at Old Trafford on Thursday.

However, he admits the Brazilians have set the standards for a competition in which the British men’s team has not played since 1960.

Pearce said: “They are an outstanding side and favourites for the tournament, and you can see why.

“We understand the magnitude of the task in the Olympics. Whoever is going to beat them will probably have a gold medal, I would think.

“But we will draw the positives out of the game. We need to make sure we come to the boil next Thursday and beyond, and unless we play Brazil again, we might not play a side as strong as that.”

Britain fell behind after

just 12 minutes when Tottenham midfielder Sandro headed home the impressive Neymar’s free-kick, and the 20-year-old Santos striker added the second from the penalty spot 10 minutes before the break after Hulk had been tripped by Micah Richards.

But Pearce’s men, who have only been together for two weeks, were well beaten by Mano Menezes’ well-drilled and supremely talented outfit, and but for poor finishing and the efforts of keepers Jason Steele and Jack Butland, who played a half each, they would have won far more comfortably.

Pearce said: “It was a real learning curve for us. We thought it would be a tough game, it was. It didn’t help that we gave two cheapish goals away, but we have to learn by it, prepare and get ready for Thursday.”

Butland’s performance after the break, which included fine late saves from Neymar and substitute Alexandre Pato, came as no surprise to Pearce, who saw his potential at close hand during last summer’s World Under-20s Championships in Colombia.

He said: “He’s an outstanding goalkeeper. He will be a great talent. I took Joe Hart to Manchester City when he was at a similar age, and this kid is up there with him.

“I look forward to the pair of them challenging each

other for years to come.

“All he needs is the experience. His attitude and confidence, he is way above his years.”

Striker Daniel Sturridge, who played the first 45 minutes following his recovery from viral meningitis, will be assessed in the coming days, while second-half substitute Aaron Ramsey complained of a tight groin after the final whistle.

Menezes was happy with his side’s display, but was not concerned about the message it might have sent to Brazil’s rivals for the medals.

He said: “We are not worried about sending a message beforehand. Our main concern was to bring a rhythm to the last few players who joined us, especially the European-based players who have just come back from holidays.

“In the first 20 minutes, we were not able to do that, but then we kept focus and we started to improve.

“After we start playing the tournament, we will gain confidence and then we will try to send a message to the other teams as to what we want to do, which is to play well.

“It’s too early yet to talk about the contenders for medals. We have to show potential and we can say that some teams probably are more up to it at the moment than others.”

Brazil superstar Neymar was in impressive form against Team GB, scoring one and setting up another

World Cup loss firing up US women for London Games

By Simon Evans

Abby Wambach has 138 goals from 182 internationals for the US, who are the defending champions and highly fancied to win a third consecutive gold medal

US women’s football team forward Abby Wambach believes the pain of last year’s crushing World Cup final defeat to Japan will help fire them towards an Olympic gold medal.

The team, coached by Swede Pia Sundhage, start their Olympic campaign against France in Glasgow on Wednesday, two days before the opening ceremony to the London Games. They will also play North Korea and Colombia in the group stage.

While the United States are the defending champions and highly fancied to win a third consecutive gold medal, they come into the tournament still with some of the bitter taste from last year’s World Cup campaign in Germany.

Japan fell behind in regulation and extra time during

last year’s final but fought back on both occasions for a 2-2 draw before prevailing 3-1 on penalties over a topranked US team.

“Because we got so close and lost in the most dramatic way you can lose a soccer tournament, it adds even more fuel to the fire,” Wambach, who has 138 goals from 182 internationals, said yesterday during a conference call.

“We have had a short period of time from the World Cup to now and I think it is really nice and important for the freshness of that loss to be stuck in our minds and honestly in our hearts.

“What is in the past, is in the past but this team still has something to prove.”

While success in the Olympic tournament, allied with World Cup triumphs in 1991 and 1999, makes the U.S. squad one of the dominant forces in the women’s game, Wambach believes that the

current crop are fired up to show their value.

“There is no better motivation than losing. I think that we did a lot of really cool things in Germany last summer, we got people excited about the women’s game again and truthfully I wasn’t sure if that was going to happen again in my career.

“This team has something to prove. I know that all of us are competitors through and through. We are competing when we are playing ping pong in our team floor, whatever it is we want to win,” she said.

Key to the American team’s chances is the strike pairing between Wambach and 23-year-old Californian Alex Morgan.

Morgan scored in the World Cup final but until this year was mainly used for the bench before her form forced Sundhage to adjust her system.

RYAN Giggs revealed he was “very proud” to captain Team GB in the 2-0 friendly loss to pre-tournament favourites Brazil.

Despite an underwhelming performance against a strong Brazil side, the 38-year-old was delighted to wear the captain’s armband against Mano Menezes’ men.

“Obviously I’m very proud,” Giggs told the BBC. “It was a good game to be involved in, obviously against Brazil.

It’s always special when you play against Brazil, but to captain and be involved was great.”

A Sandro header and a Neymar penalty condemned Team GB to a 2-0 defeat in what was the side’s first official game under manager Stuart Pearce.

And with just under a week to go before Pearce’s squad kicks off its Olympic 2012 campaign against Senegal, Giggs believes the team will be ready in time and can only get better from here on in.

“It was great preparation for us,” the midfielder said.

“We knew it was going to be tough. They’re probably ahead of us fitness-wise.

“You can’t really kill them running every day like what we normally do in a preseason. But equally you need to get some sort of a base fitness, so it’s been tricky balancing the two but this game will have brought us on again and we’ve got another six days or so to get ready for Senegal.

“We’ve only been together nearly two weeks. We’re definitely getting better and we’ll improve as the tournament goes on so it was a good benchmark for us today.”

Team GB was outclassed for much of the game against Brazil but the Welshman feels that the younger players in the squad would have learned from the experience and have the quality to impact on the tournament.

“We’ve learned that we’ve got a lot of talent in the dressing room,” he said.

“Everyone is comfortable on the ball and we will get better. I’ve seen that in training, I’ve seen the quality in training and we’ve seen in parts tonight.

“It’s always disappointing to lose a game but we’ll take the positives from it.”

Man United’s Welsh wizard captained Team GB

48 July 22, 2012 • SUNDAY MAIL

Sport

Olympic cauldron lighting will be ‘wow’ 45 moment

Brazil are the gold standard, says beaten Team GB coach Pearce 47

Wiggins on the verge of Tour history Sky rider set to become first British winner of famous race after blowing away rivals

By Matt McGeehan

B Rain master: Ferrari ace Fernando Alonso mastered the wet weather to qualify first for today’s German Grand Prix

Alonso defies storm to take Hockenheim pole

By Brian Homewood FERRARI’S Formula One championship leader Fernando Alonso defied a thunderstorm to take pole position for the German Grand Prix yesterday.

The Spaniard was joined on the front row by Red Bull’s double world champion Sebastian Vettel, who will be attempting to win a Grand Prix in his native Germany for the first time, after qualifying in atrocious conditions.

Vettel’s team mate Mark Webber, second in the championship after nine of the 20 races, was third fastest but the Australian will drop five places after being penalised for an unscheduled gearbox change before qualifying.

Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, fourth fastest for Mercedes in front of his home fans, will therefore start alongside Force India’s Nico Hulkenberg on an all-German second row.

“It was not fun, that’s for sure,” said Alonso of his second pole in a row, with the other coming at a wet Silverstone two weeks ago, and 22nd of his career.

“When you have this type of conditions it’s very difficult to put a clean lap together and very easy to finish in the gravel or in the grass or in the wall.

“It’s a bit of a survival moment. You try to complete the lap and whatever the position is, you are happy,” added the double world champion.

A huge clap of thunder shuddered over the circuit before the start of the second part of qualifying, announcing a deluge

which left pools of standing water all over the track.

Vettel and Webber held the lead before Alonso went in for a new set of extreme wet tyres near the end and came out to produce a stunning lap of one minute 40.621 seconds, four tenths of a second quicker than anyone else.

Alonso said before the start of the final session that he thought conditions were too wet to continue.

“We made a good strategy call with a pit stop in the third qualifying session and very fresh tyres and that helped,” he said.

“In these conditions it’s always a bit of a lottery,” said Vettel, who has yet to win a race in July. “You can lose the car without making any mistake.”

“There are rivers everywhere, as soon as the car aquaplanes you are a passenger.”

McLaren pair Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton, who have had a disappointing last two races, were seventh and eighth fastest after looking quick on Friday with new upgrades but will move up due to Webber’s demotion.

Germany’s Nico Rosberg, Schumacher’s team mate, and French driver Romain Grosjean for Lotus also have five place penalties for today’s race due to gearbox changes.

Hamilton said he had paid the price for getting his final lap in before others.

“The track got better and better and I guess the other guys were able to post quicker times after that,” said the Briton. “The track was drying so we would have got better if we had one more lap, but it was like driving on ice for us.”

RADLEY Wiggins is set to become the first British winner of the Tour de France after an imperious victory in the stage 19 time-trial to Chartres yesterday.

In the 99th edition of the sport’s most fabled race, the 32-year-old Londoner will ride today’s 120-kilometre 20th stage from Rambouillet to the Champs-Elysees in Paris knowing he will return home victorious.

Wiggins, a three-time Olympic champion, began the 53.5km time-trial from Bonneval to Chartres with an advantage of two minutes five seconds over Team Sky colleague Chris Froome and enhanced his hold on the maillot jaune with a scintillating display against the clock to take a 3-minute 21 second lead into the final stage.

Wiggins completed the route in one hour four minutes 12 seconds.

Froome was 1min 16secs slower in 1.05:29 to place second on the stage and all but confirm second place overall, with the final stage effectively a procession to the finish on the Champs-Elysees.

Vincenzo Nibali is set to complete the podium despite not being in contention yesterday.

The margin of Wiggins’ victory answered many of those who questioned why Froome, who appeared marginally stronger in the mountains, was not Team Sky’s Tour leader.

Team Sky were launched in 2010 with the stated aim of winning the Tour with a clean British rider within five years - it is a target boss Dave Brailsford and his squad, through Wiggins, are set to achieve in three.

Froome is also on the verge of history - no Briton has finished on the Tour podium in 98 previous editions, with Wiggins’ 2009 fourth place equalling Robert Millar’s 1984 best. Now there are set

Triumph: Bradley Wiggins is set to achieve his lifelong goal

to be two.

The last time two riders from the same nation finished first and second in the Tour was 1984, when Laurent Fignon finished ahead of Bernard Hinault.

Wiggins has been in stunning form this season, winning the Paris-Nice, Tour de Romandie and Criterium du Dauphine stage races, and has carried his form into the Tour.

Team-mate Mark Cavendish, who won stages two and 18, will be seeking to complete a stunning Tour for Britain on today’s processional stage, usually contest-

ed by the sprinters.

The 27-year-old ‘Manx Missile’ has completed the Tour three times and won on the Champs-Elysees on each occasion - in 2009, 2010 and 2011 - and it is likely Wiggins will be seen leading out Cavendish on the French capital’s most famous boulevard.