Labour Minister’s Pro-Union Stance Raises Concerns Among Businesses
In a recent presentation, Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou outlined a series of measures that have been interpreted as heavily favoring union interests, sparking debate about the potential impact on the Cypriot business community. Panayiotou, who has been characterized as a “union yes-man,” has focused his efforts on satisfying labour syndicates, raising questions about his impartiality in balancing the needs of workers with those of employers.
Among the minister’s achievements in the past year are the increase of the Cost of Living Allowance (CoLA), the decree raising the minimum wage, and the introduction of legislation for telework and protections against excessive standing at work. Additionally, he has extended maternity leave and increased income for certain professionals. Looking ahead, Panayiotou aims to strengthen the regulation of work terms and conditions, support working parents further, and tackle illegal work by ramping up inspections and fines.
While these initiatives may improve worker conditions, they have also raised concerns within the business sector. With the Cypriot economy nearing full employment and facing a significant labour shortage estimated at 150,000 workers, businesses are worried about the minister’s apparent lack of attention to this pressing issue. The hotel industry, in particular, could face severe consequences if the labour gap is not promptly addressed.
The minister’s focus on clamping down on illegal employment comes at a time when businesses are struggling to find workers. This has led to speculation that Panayiotou is preparing businesses for a reality where approvals for third-country workers will not meet the economy’s needs. His call for “better cooperation” between social partners on foreign worker employment seems optimistic, given the unions’ historical resistance to increasing foreign labour.
As businesses grapple with these challenges, the minister’s pro-union rhetoric and actions continue to stir controversy. The question remains whether consensus can be achieved when the mediator, Minister Panayiotou, is perceived as biased against business interests.
