**Union Condemns Dismissal of Prison Guard as 'Illegal' and Plans Legal Action**
The Isotita (Equality) trade union has strongly condemned the recent dismissal of Giorgos Maltezos, a prison guard and union official, labeling the action as “manifestly illegal.” The dismissal, executed by the Ministry of Justice, was attributed to what the ministry described as “repeated dereliction of duty” following a disciplinary investigation into Maltezos’ conduct.
According to the ministry's statement, Maltezos was terminated from his position, which was held under an indefinite contract, due to findings of “repeated noncompliance with official instructions” and unauthorized absences from duty. The ministry characterized these actions as a serious breach of his official responsibilities, justifying the termination of his employment.
In response, the Isotita union has announced plans to pursue legal action against the ministry’s decision. The union argues that Maltezos’ dismissal was executed without prior notice and without the right to compensation, despite his significant role as vice president and spokesman of the prison guards’ sector council, as well as a member of the union’s board.
The union's statement emphasized that the disciplinary case against Maltezos was related to absences that arose from his trade union duties. Isotita contends that these absences were communicated to the prisons department in advance and in writing. Furthermore, they argue that no specific operational damage resulting from these absences was documented in the case file.
The timing of Maltezos’ dismissal has also raised eyebrows within the union. They noted that it occurred just three days after the state submitted observations to the European Social Rights Committee concerning trade union rights. Isotita has expressed concerns that this timing may not be coincidental and is seeking clarification regarding a meeting that took place between Justice Minister Costas Fitiris and the public sector union Pasydy on the same day as the dismissal.
While the union is careful not to attribute motive, they are requesting an explanation as to whether the discussions during the meeting may have influenced the decision to terminate Maltezos’ employment. Despite the termination, Isotita confirmed that Maltezos continues to hold his elected trade union positions.
In light of these developments, Isotita plans to escalate the matter further. They intend to bring the dismissal to the attention of the European Social Rights Committee, requesting that it be included in a complaint regarding trade union rights. Additionally, the union will seek the suspension of the dismissal decision and Maltezos' reinstatement.
The union also announced its intention to file complaints with several oversight bodies, including the International Labour Organisation’s Committee on Freedom of Association, the Trade Union Commissioner, the Auditor General, and the Independent Authority Against Corruption.
The situation has sparked significant debate regarding the rights of union officials and the implications of their roles within the public sector. As the legal proceedings unfold, the Isotita union remains steadfast in its commitment to defending the rights of its members and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace.
As the story develops, it will be crucial to monitor the responses from the Ministry of Justice and other relevant authorities regarding the allegations raised by the Isotita union and the subsequent legal actions that may ensue.