In a recent development that has drawn praise from labor representatives, the Oekdy-Sek trade union has welcomed the government’s decision to extend the forest firefighting season from six to eight months. This strategic move is set to enhance the island’s preparedness and response to forest fires.
Starting April 1, the extension will not only lengthen the firefighting season but also ensure that several stations are staffed with forest firefighters throughout the entire year. During the off-season, which now spans four months, selected stations will operate at 50 percent capacity to maintain coverage over the island’s forested regions. The union has clarified that should weather conditions pose an increased risk of fire during these months, staffing numbers will be adjusted accordingly.
Giorgos Constantinou, the general secretary of Oekdy-Sek, has outlined that participation in shift work outside the regular season will be on a voluntary basis. Interested firefighters are required to submit their intention to opt in formally in writing. Constantinou assured that working hours within this shift system would be distributed equally among all volunteers.
The agreement, which has been under discussion for several months, came into being following persistent advocacy by forest firefighters who are union members. Their efforts last year have borne fruit, as Constantinou noted, resulting in earlier staffing of the forest fire brigade this year. This proactive approach has significantly improved response times, coordination, equipment troubleshooting, and training capabilities.
The decision was finalized after a meeting between the government and various stakeholders on Tuesday. This initiative is a testament to the collaborative efforts between trade unions and the government to safeguard natural resources and enhance public safety.
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