Paphos garbage collectors are on a 24 hour strike to protest the municipality’s decision to contract out the service to the private sector.
The municipality has assured that no employee will lose their job and all will be assigned other duties. It cites studies that show considerable savings from the implementation of the measure.
The striking workers gathered outside Paphos Town Hall at 8 am calling on the municipality to respect collective agreements.
The strike is supported by trade union confederations SEK, PEO and DEOK.
The workers said this was a warning strike and that they may escalate their measures depending on developments. They are also appealing for the understanding and solidarity of Paphos residents.
But Paphos Mayor Phedon Phedonos said the strike was completely unjustified as no worker will lose their job or any of their benefits.
The mayor said contracting the service to the private sector would mean significant savings which will be passed on to residents in lower rates.
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