Politis

Police Working Hours: Discussion in Parliament in January - Potential Mobilization

Published January 5, 2026, 11:28
Police Working Hours: Discussion in Parliament in January - Potential Mobilization

Police unions are anticipating a discussion in the House of Representatives, specifically within the Legal Affairs Committee, during January regarding the recent circular issued by the Chief of Police concerning police working hours. The issuance of the circular has sparked reactions and concerns among police officers, with unions expressing fears of potential deterioration of their labor rights. Simultaneously, a meeting of the Joint Personnel Committee of the Police (MEPA) is expected on the same issue, with the Cyprus Police Association (SAK) stating that future steps will be determined by the outcome of the meeting. The Equality union has already called for a protest rally outside the Parliament building on the day of the discussion, declaring its readiness to take measures to protect the rights of police officers. The union insists that the only solution is the suspension of the implementation of the controversial circular. SAK, for its part, desires dialogue with the Chief of Police, emphasizing that communication and consensus could have prevented the crisis that has arisen. The Deputy President of DISY, Evthymios Diplaros, stated that the party leadership reacted immediately and clearly to the complaint against MP Nikos Sykas, emphasizing zero tolerance for violence and respect for the Justice system. Mr. Sykas remains a member of the parliamentary group, but the case has caused serious damage to the party. Justice is called upon to move quickly and without interference to investigate all the data. Unions have submitted a memorandum to the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, expressing their concern about the level of the minimum wage, the implementation of collective agreements, the employment of workers from third countries, and the 'Ergani 2' system. They are also requesting a meeting with the President and the Minister of Labor for substantial dialogue on labor issues.