PASYDY has called for consultation over proposed changes to public sector sick leave, saying it supports efforts to tackle abuse but opposes any unilateral changes that would undermine employees’ acquired rights.
The union’s Secretary-General, Stratis Matthaiou, was responding to comments by Justice and Public Order Minister Costas Fytiris, who has expressed his intention to introduce legislation regulating sick leave in the public sector.
Support for tackling abuse
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Matthaiou said PASYDY had learned of the minister’s plans through media reports.
“We are in favour of tackling abuse [of the system]. Clearly, we are aligned with the minister on the issue of the misuse of sick leave,” he said.
Concern over acquired rights
However, Matthaiou stressed that the union would not accept the removal of acquired employment rights.
“At the same time, we are not prepared to see acquired rights abolished,” he said, adding that PASYDY’s primary concern is the protection of employees with chronic illnesses.
Call for consultation
Matthaiou said any changes should be discussed with stakeholders rather than introduced unilaterally.
“What we are asking is for there to be consultation on these matters, not unilateral actions,” he said.
Asked whether PASYDY was prepared to enter into discussions with the government, Matthaiou replied that it was and said he would contact the Justice Minister to request a briefing on the proposals.
Also read: Guterres’ upcoming Cyprus visit “highly significant”
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
