Hospital unions give SHSO until 16 October for written reply
Six unions at Cyprus state hospitals are balloting members on possible strike action after talks on a new collective agreement stalled, with a written answer demanded by 16 October.
Six unions representing staff at Cyprus state hospitals are turning to their members this week for a mandate on possible industrial action, as reported by Phileleftheros. The move follows a fruitless round of negotiations with the State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) over renewing their collective agreement.
The unions' most recent encounter with SHSO management, on 30 September, produced no deal. They have since submitted what they call a final joint proposal and want an official written response by Friday 16 October at the latest, according to the newspaper.
The proposal covers a two-year renewal with specified percentage increases, and revives the long-standing dispute over pay scales for staff on SHSO contracts. Under the timetable set out, talks on those scales would wrap up by mid-2027, with the new system applying from 1 January 2028 if agreed.
"all appropriate and lawful measures"
The unions have asked for an urgent meeting between their leaders and the SHSO board to keep the door open to a settlement.
What it means for residents
A strike by hospital staff would be felt directly at the point of care, so anyone with appointments, procedures or regular treatment at state hospitals should keep an eye on how the talks develop over the next fortnight.
- Watch appointment dates Scheduled visits and procedures could be rearranged if industrial action goes ahead, so confirm closer to the time.
- Plan medication refills If you rely on state hospital pharmacies for recurring prescriptions, it is worth checking supplies before mid-October.
- Follow the deadline The 16 October cut-off for a written reply is the point at which the unions say their decision-making bodies will step in.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.
