The government is attempting to put a stop to the “spree” of sick leave in the public sector. The Minister of Justice is already in consultation with all relevant stakeholders, as well as the Cyprus Medical Association, to move forward with legislative measures.

According to the newspaper “Phileleftheros,” all parties are already in the process of examining practical solutions and changes, with the aim of protecting those who are genuinely ill while also addressing the irregularities that have been identified. This was preceded by an interministerial meeting with the Ministers of Justice, Labor, Finance, and Health, as the intention is to address the issue comprehensively.

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Public sector labor unions are also calling for dialogue with the government. Speaking to Alpha, the General Secretary of OHO-SEK, Andreas Ilias, stated that great care must be taken in how any changes are managed.

“I don’t believe there is any intention to restrict sick leave for those who absolutely need it. Through a dialogue that must take place—and that the government is obligated to initiate—we can address the issue, assess the scope of the problem, and find the appropriate solutions.”

READ ALSO: An end to the abuse of sick leave in the public sector; bills are being introduced by four ministries

The issue of sick leave had also been highlighted by the Audit Office in its relevant reports.

See the report by Nasia Ioannou: