**Lifeguards Protest Understaffing Amid Safety Concerns in Cyprus**
On Wednesday, lifeguards across Cyprus participated in a 24-hour strike, voicing serious concerns over the severe understaffing of lifeguard stations on the nation’s beaches. The industrial action has raised alarms about the potential safety risks for beachgoers, particularly during the peak summer season.
Sakis Nikolaou, head of the Limassol lifeguard unit, highlighted the critical situation in the city, noting that only 13 of the 24 lifeguard stations are currently operational. With 43 lifeguards employed in the district, the staffing levels are insufficient to ensure the safety of bathers. Nikolaou pointed out specific examples of understaffing, such as at Lady’s Mile beach, where only one lifeguard tower is functional, and at Governor’s beach, which has no lifeguard presence at all. "This understaffing is unacceptable and endangers the lives of bathers," he stated.
The lifeguards are demanding the hiring of more permanent staff and the introduction of 10-month contracts to attract individuals to the profession. Nikolaou also called for the provision of year-round contracts to guarantee the continuous operation of lifeguard stations, as well as for salary increases, enhanced benefits, better insurance coverage, and improved working conditions. He emphasized that "Limassol is the heart of tourism, and safety in its seas is not a luxury, but a necessity."
In the Famagusta district, lifeguard supervisor Michalis Adamou reported that the strike resulted in a complete absence of lifeguards on duty. The district employs 82 lifeguards who man 30 stations, but the current staffing situation is precarious. Adamou explained that 40 of the lifeguards work year-round, while others are on varying contract lengths, with some only working for six months. He lamented the lack of interest in lifeguard positions, despite ongoing advertisements for vacant roles.
"The reason is because there are vacant positions advertised, but there is no interest from people to either work or be trained," Adamou noted. He elaborated that becoming a lifeguard requires a significant commitment to training and obtaining the necessary qualifications, which can deter potential candidates. The short-term nature of many contracts, particularly those lasting only six months, further diminishes interest in the profession.
As the summer season progresses, the absence of lifeguards on the beaches raises serious concerns about public safety. With many families and tourists flocking to the coast, the need for adequate lifeguard coverage has never been more critical. The lifeguards' strike serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in ensuring the safety of beachgoers in Cyprus, as they advocate for better working conditions and staffing levels to protect the lives of those enjoying the sun and sea.