Nicosia, Cyprus. Forest firefighters staffing the Forestry Department will stage a strike on May 25 and 26 to protest what trade unions said was a violation of their work description. The unions said the issue has affected response capability and put firefighters at risk.
Unions cite breach of duties and safety risks
Trade unions SEK, PEO and Deok said on Wednesday that the alleged violation prevented firefighters from responding immediately to a fire and placed their safety and lives at risk.
Dispute over agreement with government
The unions said an agreement reached last year between the trade unions and the government, in the presence of the Forestry Department director, had been implemented, but that the department this year decided not to honour the agreement.
Letters and disciplinary warnings
The unions said they sent letters to the Forestry Department calling for the agreement to be restored, along with compensation for handling heavy vehicles and machinery.
They said they called on forest firefighters to continue implementing the agreement, after which they received letters from the Forestry Department director informing them of disciplinary measures.
Reason for strike
The unions said the strike was decided to protect the forests and the firefighters who place their lives in danger to save the forests.
How do you think the dispute between the trade unions and the Forestry Department should be resolved?
