We want to raise concerns regarding the unacceptable bus stops and the authorities' responsibilities. Older people's situation in Cyprus is deeply troubling, and we strongly condemn the State's indifference.
Recently, an online photo depicted an older woman standing under the scorching sun, waiting for a bus on a route. This image is undeniably humiliating and degrading. Older people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and the State must provide them with the conditions for a comfortable and safe daily life.
We urge the Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works to immediately address and resolve this long-standing problem, which his predecessors have ignored for decades. We implore the Minister to ensure that the elderly and other vulnerable groups in our society have access to decent transportation services. The existence of inadequate or virtually non-existent bus stops in a European country is unacceptable. It is unfathomable that elderly individuals are subjected to extreme weather conditions without the necessary protective structures.
As an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of older people, we express our deep disappointment in the apathy displayed by the authorities responsible and their lack of progress on this issue. The government must allocate adequate funds to establish modern and decent bus stops, and we expect the House of Representatives to support any decision in this direction.
We cannot allow this inhumane situation to persist, as it directly jeopardizes the health and well-being of older people. It is high time that a suitable transportation environment is ensured for all citizens in our country.