EU ministers discuss worker protection from extreme heat at final Cyprus presidency meeting

Luxembourg, Luxembourg. Protecting workers from extreme heat was among the main issues discussed on Monday at the EU Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council, the final meeting under Cyprus’ EU presidency.

Cyprus Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas said the presidency had been “a journey of cooperation and joint European effort” and described it as “a demanding but substantive course” that showed Europe can progress with determination and a shared vision.

Meeting agenda

Mousiouttas said ministers would examine the European Semester spring package and the latest country-specific recommendations aimed at strengthening resilience and productivity in European labour markets.

He said that from the start of Cyprus’ presidency, the focus had been on placing people at the centre and promoting a Europe that supports its citizens, protects workers and creates more opportunities for all.

Labour mobility and social security

The ministers were also set to discuss the future of fair labour mobility within the EU and ways to adapt social security regulations to modern labour markets.

Heat protection and working conditions

Mousiouttas highlighted the need to safeguard workers’ health and safety against the effects of climate change, with particular emphasis on the extreme temperatures affecting Europe.

He said resilience could not be discussed without protecting workers’ health and safety.

Cyprus presidency priorities

Mousiouttas said the aim of the priorities promoted during Cyprus’ EU presidency was to build a more social Europe that ensures fair, safe and decent working conditions for all.