Cyprus construction unions threaten strikes over foreign worker permits
SEK, PEO and DEOK say the labour ministry keeps renewing permits for contractors accused of breaking collective agreements and employment law, and warn of industrial action.
Cyprus construction unions SEK, PEO and DEOK have warned they could take industrial action unless the labour ministry stops renewing employment permits for third-country workers employed by contractors and subcontractors accused of breaching collective agreements and labour law, as reported by Cyprus Mail.
In a joint statement, the unions called for permits to be refused to employers with a record of violations and for decisions already taken to be reconsidered, including possible cancellation. They also want technical committees bringing together unions and employers' organisations to vet third-country applications, plus tougher inspections on building sites.
“Compliance with labour legislation cannot be optional or selectively enforced,” the statement said.
What it means for residents
Construction is one of the sectors most reliant on workers from outside the EU, so any pause or strike action would be felt quickly on sites and in repair schedules. The dispute is also about how public money is spent: the unions argue that firms working on state-funded projects should not be rewarded with permits while under investigation.
- Building work: expect possible delays on projects if industrial action goes ahead or permits are slowed down.
- Employment rules: contractors may face closer scrutiny of pay, insurance contributions and collective agreements before permits are approved.
- Watch for updates: if you employ or work alongside third-country staff, keep an eye on ministry announcements and union statements.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.
