A social services worker was attacked in Limassol, according to a statement from the trade union “Isotita”, which has warned of potential strike action if safety concerns are not addressed.
The incident reportedly took place on Monday at the Germasogeia Social Welfare Services Office. A citizen allegedly became aggressive, launching a verbal and physical attack against staff. The individual is said to have thrown objects in an attempt to shatter the protective glass at the reception area.
The union claims that the private security guard on duty failed to intervene, while the police arrived approximately 30 minutes after the incident began.
“This incident highlights once again that the private security guards assigned to Social Welfare Services offices are clearly not equipped with the skills or training required for crisis management,” the union stated.
“Their presence offers only superficial, not genuine, protection. The lack of clear cooperation protocols with the police results in dangerous delays. Staff are forced to work under conditions of fear and appeasement, which ultimately encourages, rather than prevents, violence,” it added.
“Isotita” has called on both the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare and the Cyprus Police to take immediate action. The union is requesting that private security guards be replaced with police officers and that an official protocol for managing violent incidents be established, including the logging of such cases and limiting service to aggressive individuals.
The union further warned it is prepared to take dynamic measures to protect its members. These may include work stoppages, strikes, refusal to serve violent citizens, public complaints, and legal action.
Source: CNA
Feature Photo source: Aftodioikisi
Also read: 19-year-old in critical condition after Larnaca accident
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
