Cyta employees on strike over proposed changes

Cyprus Telecommunications Authority (Cyta) trade unions are holding a two-hour work stoppage on Wednesday morning in protest over staffing issues.

The Cyta employees are in disagreement with proposed changes to the authority which will affect the permanent status of employees and employee pay scales.

In their statement the union workers said the goal was “to send a strong and clear message in all directions, that the workers are united, we demand respect and that we will stand firm against any effort that may undermine the public character of the organisation.”

The proposal for the update of the institution calls for an increase in private contract workers and purchase of services and reduced pay scales for new hires.

“[This] final proposal cannot be accepted, because above all it endangers [Cyta’s] public character [as a semi-state entity]” the unions said.

Moreover, it expressed disappointment with the messaging presenting the proposed restructure as an upgrade, claiming it to be “full of inaccuracies.”

As regards temporary employees, the unions demand from Cyta a one-time increase of 5.75 per cent on monthly salaries; 0.5 per cent payment of the salary into the medical care fund; a 0.5 per cent social security payment; total working hours corresponding to those of the existing monthly staff; overtime benefits; holidays and sick leaves on equal terms and the possibility of advancement with promotions.

The work stoppage is taking place from 8am until 10am on Wednesday.