Police unions are preparing to protest against a proposed reform that seeks to change working hours and holiday regulations for officers. The contentious reform was revealed earlier this week, prompting a strong backlash from union representatives following a meeting with Justice Minister Costas Fitiris on Friday.
Working hours: Union Leaders Express Discontent
Nikos Loizides, head of the police branch of the Isotita trade union, voiced his concerns over the proposed changes put forth by police chief Themistos Arnaoutis. During the meeting, Loizides expressed anger over the plans, highlighting that the union would explore various avenues to challenge the reform.
“We have legal remedies at our disposal, including the Joint Police Committee, the European police union and the courts. With the approval of my council, we are also prepared to hold protests in unexpected locations and on unanticipated days,” Loizides stated after the meeting. He mentioned a potential protest on January 7, coinciding with the opening ceremony of Cyprus’ EU Council presidency.
Concerns Over Officer Wellbeing
Loizides has raised alarms over the implications of the reform, which he claims would significantly reduce the rest days for officers. Previously, officers could take one day off for every 20 working days; under the new proposal, this would change to one day off for every 76 working days. This change, he asserts, would deprive officers of 15 days of rest annually.
The unions’ outrage was further fuelled by comments made by the police chief suggesting the existence of dishonest officers abusing overtime and hidden agendas within unions. Loizides conveyed that such remarks led to a strong reaction from the unions, as they felt their integrity was being questioned.
Government’s Position and Warnings
Justice Minister Costas Fitiris urged the unions to moderate their tone, emphasising that the police chief’s orders must be followed. He stated, “Discipline also means that even those who disagree must carry out orders given by their superiors without question.” Fitiris also outlined that the unions could pursue legal action if they felt their rights were infringed upon.
The minister rejected claims from Loizides that the reform was politically motivated, asserting that it was strictly a decision made by the police leadership. He stressed the importance of maintaining order within the police force, saying, “Under no circumstances should it be allowed that, under pressure, whether from public opposition or the use of the media, demands are met in a way that undermines the hierarchy required in a security force such as the police.”
Union’s Call for Dialogue
In a joint statement, police unions expressed their belief that the plans put forth by Arnaoutis circumvented established labour institutions. They argued that modifications to working hours should be the result of dialogue, not unilateral decisions.
Angelos Nikolaou, president of the Cyprus Police Association (CPA), described the meeting with the justice minister as productive, stating that his association supports the suspension of Arnaoutis’ proposal. He mentioned the need to address the police chief’s unilateral decision to reduce officers’ days off and modify working hours.
“The police are a disciplined body. It was agreed that we would follow the chief’s instructions while appealing to the relevant bodies to examine the possibility of modifying, cancelling or suspending the decision,” Nikolaou explained.
Next Steps and Future Actions
The CPA has communicated with the Joint Police Committee (JPC), which is expected to convene next week to further discuss the implications of the proposed changes. Nikolaou has indicated that legal action may be pursued if necessary, including discussions with the president about the situation.
He also highlighted the importance of protecting the labour rights of police officers, stating, “The essence is the labour rights of police officers and we must defend those who work and give their all to their duty.”
A Call for Responsibility
Fitiris expressed concern about the possibility of protests coinciding with the EU Council presidency, stating he was “worried and saddened” by the unions’ threats of a work stoppage. He reassured that the state would continue to function, stating, “The state will not stop functioning,” and warned of consequences for any union actions that deviate from state regulations.
The Justice Minister concluded by expressing confidence in the sense of responsibility among police officers, emphasising their commitment to public safety and their oath to serve the community. He stated, “I do not believe that there is even one police officer who would violate his oath and act contrary to what society demands.”