Nicosia, Cyprus. Prison officers’ union Isotita on Sunday described dismissed officer Giorgos Matezos as a model of professionalism and ethics, condemning what it called his unfair and provocative dismissal.
The justice ministry said the dismissal, for dereliction of duty in carrying out orders, was unrelated to Matezos’ role in the union.
Union response
Isotita said Matezos had played a leading role in workers’ struggles and that many of the rights and achievements enjoyed by prison officers were owed to him.
“We speak of him in the present tense. We do not say goodbye to him,” the union said.
Matezos is vice president and press secretary of Isotita’s prison officers’ branch.
In a message to the justice ministry, the union said: “You may have removed a person from their workplace, but you will never silence our voice.”
Prison conditions
The union said conditions in prisons made it difficult for officers to carry out their duties.
It said clashes had become an almost daily occurrence, with officers being physically and mentally affected by working conditions, while the danger continued to escalate.
Ministry and Akel statements
Earlier on Sunday, the justice ministry defended its decision after criticism from Akel, stating that it respected union rights but that Matezos’ dismissal had no connection with his union position.
Akel said it would raise Matezos’ dismissal for discussion at the House labour committee.
