In a landmark ruling, the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC) has been ordered to compensate journalist Evdokia Loizou with over €925,000 for contracting viral encephalitis, which she claimed was due to poor working conditions. The Nicosia District Court’s decision includes VAT, interest, and legal fees.
The case, which has drawn significant attention, saw 18 witnesses, including medical experts and officials from the Labour Inspection Department, testify in support of Loizou. Her legal representation was led by lawyer Michael Vorkas. Notably, two expert medical professors, Vassilios Makropoulos and UK specialist Michael G. Hanna, provided critical testimony that supported Loizou’s claims.
The court acknowledged the severity of Loizou’s condition, recognizing that she suffers from post-encephalitis syndrome with symptoms consistent with viral encephalitis. The judge emphasized the scientific evidence presented by Professor Hanna, a Neurology expert, which played a crucial role in the court’s findings.
Viral encephalitis, as described by the court, is an infectious disease caused by environmental factors that can lead to long-term neurological damage. The court noted that Loizou has endured significant pain and suffering for over 17 years, with ongoing effects that continue to impact her quality of life, career, and daily activities.
The judgment also pointed out that Loizou successfully demonstrated the necessary causal link between her illness and the substandard working conditions at CyBC. This conclusion was supported by a 2012 report from Dr. Athanasios Athanasiou of the Labour Inspection Department, which initially identified Loizou’s workplace as the cause of her disease.
Despite CyBC’s denial of the Labour Inspection Department’s findings and their attempt to challenge the decision in court, their sole witness, Dr. Elpidophoros Sotiriades, failed to convince the court. His testimony was deemed insufficient against the substantial evidence presented by Loizou’s witnesses.
This case sets a precedent for employer liability concerning employee health and safety in the workplace. It underscores the importance of maintaining a safe working environment and the potential consequences of neglecting this responsibility.
