Cyprus Police Chief Themistoklis Arnaoutis announced plans to revamp shift schedules for over 1,000 officers working 12×36-hour rotations. The change reduces shifts to 11 hours, aiming to boost street presence and community policing. This move, effective January 1, 2026, has ignited frontal clashes with police unions.
During a press conference at the Police Academy, Arnaoutis outlined three pillars for modernizing the force by 2030: operational efficiency, human resources management, and technology upgrades. He emphasised the need to increase the number of officers on the ground, citing a 2019 agreement that allows for 37.5-hour workweeks.
Shift changes and union backlash
The adjustment means each affected officer loses 15 rest days annually, equivalent to 15 extra service days. Arnaoutis argues that this frees up personnel, as for every 10 officers with shorter shifts, one additional officer can patrol the streets. Unions decry it as a unilateral cut to core labor rights, including €1,000 annual pay reductions.
Cyprus Police Association (CPA) President Angelos Nikolaou called it a fundamental rights violation, demanding consultation via the Joint Police Committee. “ISOTITA” Union head Nikos Loizidis labeled it “shameful and humiliating,” noting rest days drop from 19.5 to four.
Chief’s rationale and responses
Arnaoutis acknowledged tensions but stood firm, highlighting his frontline experience. “Does it surprise you that the employer wants less work while employees want more?” he asked journalists. He welcomes dialogue and claims tech upgrades will further bolster frontline numbers.
Unions plan urgent meetings and a Friday session with Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris. CPA convened an emergency plenum; “ISOTITA” vows to defend dignity.
Modernization pillars detailed
Arnaoutis presented the vision unchanged:
Operational Capability and Effectiveness: Improve response to complaints, information-led policing, and tackle serious crime.
Human Resources: Manage staff for better service, enhance evaluations/promotions, and combat corruption.
Technology: Upgrade citizen interaction, modernize infrastructure, and build cyber resilience.
Local councils and communities push for revived community policing, paused during COVID.
Source: Philenews
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