**Unions Highlight 'Third World' Conditions in Cyprus Public Sector**
On Tuesday, a meeting took place between the civil servants’ union Pasydy, President Nikos Christodoulides, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos, and Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas to address various pressing issues impacting the public sector workforce in Cyprus. The discussions centered on the status of permanent employees, the necessity for digital transformation, and the ongoing civil service reform.
Stratis Mattheou, the general secretary of Pasydy, expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the meeting, indicating that the union is looking forward to further discussions with the finance ministry to tackle the issues raised. He clarified that the union did not seek an increase in wages during the discussions but rather focused on the modernization of the public service. The goal, according to Mattheou, is to establish a public service that is efficient, friendly, and supportive of residents, businesses, and the state.
Mattheou did not shy away from criticizing the current state of public sector facilities, particularly highlighting the conditions of some public buildings, such as those used by social welfare services. He described these conditions as “third world,” emphasizing the urgent need for improvement. Although there exists a plan for the gradual construction of new government buildings, he noted that the execution of this plan is contingent upon government budgets and cannot be realized immediately.
The discussions also touched upon the timelines for addressing other outstanding issues within the public sector. Mattheou mentioned that recommendations for the planned reform of the public sector are expected to be submitted by the end of September. Additionally, a timeframe has been established for other issues, with resolutions anticipated by the end of the year. These recommendations will be formally presented to the president by a joint working group, which includes representatives from the finance ministry, the public service committee, and Pasydy.
As the meeting concluded, the union officials expressed hope that the government would take the necessary steps to address the concerns raised, thereby improving the working conditions and overall efficiency of the public sector in Cyprus.