Nicosia: Trade unions have announced a general strike set for September 11 after negotiations over the Cost of Living Allowance (CoLA) reached an impasse. The decision was made during an all-union meeting on Monday, where it was agreed to initiate a three-hour work stoppage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 11.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the strike is anticipated to significantly impact the economy as it involves unions from both public and private sectors. Regional rallies are planned during the strike period, with the primary rally scheduled at noon outside the Ministry of Finance in Nicosia.
Union representatives expressed concerns over what they perceive as a “complete alignment” between the government’s stance and the employers’ organizations’ position, which they claim was evidenced at a recent joint meeting chaired by the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance.
Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Yiannis Panayiotou, issued a written statement affirming the Ministry’s dedication to mediating the CoLA issue. He emphasized that the mediation process demands active engagement from all social partners. “Despite the difficulties and despite the disagreements, the intensive effort to reach an agreement must continue, and strike action must be avoided, in order to safeguard industrial peace and confirm tripartite social cooperation,” Panayiotou stated.
Panayiotou further mentioned that ongoing discussions and scheduled meetings are part of the social dialogue framework, urging all parties to exhibit collective responsibility to maintain stability and efficiency in the labor market.
In response to the strike announcement, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) and the Cyprus Chamber Of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) have both criticized the decision to proceed with the strike measures regarding CoLA.