Nicosia, Cyprus. The Ministry of Justice said on Sunday that the dismissal of prison guard Giorgos Maltezos was not related to trade union activity, but resulted exclusively from disciplinary findings and an assessment of evidence submitted to the minister.
The statement followed Akel’s concerns that the dismissal raised questions over respect for trade union freedoms in Cyprus.
Ministry response
The ministry said it treated trade unionism with absolute respect, in line with the Constitution, Cyprus legislation and international conventions.
It said that rights in a democracy were accompanied by corresponding obligations, adding that no one was above laws, regulations and official instructions.
Trade union action was an inalienable right, the ministry said, but should not be confused with refusing to comply with legislation, official obligations and decisions of the competent authority.
Akel concerns
Akel said on Saturday that the Ministry of Justice and the Prison Directorate should explain whether and how they had met their obligations regarding trade union freedoms.
The party said that “vindictive dismissals” of trade unionists were common practice and announced that it would raise the issue of respect for prison workers at the House labour committee.
The ministry said it welcomed the prospect of discussing the matter, as well as similar issues, with particular interest and willingness.
Disciplinary case
According to the ministry, the case concerned compliance or non-compliance with the legal and regulatory framework governing the operation of the prison department, rather than trade unionism.
