Nicosia, Cyprus. Trade unions on Thursday urged the government not to proceed unilaterally with planned changes to sick leave legislation for the broader public sector, warning that the rights of workers with genuine health needs must be protected.
Justice Minister Costas Fitiris is leading an effort to amend the legislation in an attempt to curb sick leave abuse among public-sector employees.
Government consultations
A meeting on the proposed changes was held in June between the ministers of justice, finance and health.
Earlier this week, Fitiris also met with the leadership of the Medical Association.
Union concerns
Andreas Elia, head of the SEK union representing employees of semi-governmental organisations, said the union was open to dialogue with the government.
However, he said any changes should be introduced in a measured manner to avoid affecting workers who need sick leave because of chronic health conditions.
“It would be wrong to victimise certain people,” Elia said.
He noted that semi-governmental organisations already have procedures in place, including medical officers who review sick leave requests.
Elia said it would be a mistake for the state to act unilaterally and called for exhaustive dialogue with unions before any legislation is tabled.