Ünal Üstel announces retiree bonuses and housing projects

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel has announced several social welfare measures, including a 40,000 TL bonus for approximately 48,000 Social Insurance retirees in November to mark the 50th anniversary of the Social Insurance Institution. Additionally, a 10 percent salary increase, in addition to cost-of-living adjustments, is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.

In separate developments, the Ministry of Health's decision to hire 90 temporary staff members through interviews rather than exams has drawn sharp criticism. The Cyprus Turkish Medical Association (KTTB) and the Public Employees Union (BİR-SEN) have condemned the process, alleging a lack of transparency and meritocracy. They have expressed concerns that the rapid recruitment process bypasses established examination protocols and could be used for political purposes during the election period.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced the 'Young Housing Project,' an initiative aimed at providing 5,000 social housing units with special purchasing conditions to assist young people in securing homes.