Public sector employees are demanding telework allowances as the legal framework governing remote work in government remains unfinalised, according to discussions at Monday’s House Finance Committee session examining the relevant legislation.
PASYDY representatives told the committee that social partners have initiated discussions on telework allowances for private and broader public sector workers under existing legal frameworks. The union noted no equivalent discussions exist for public sector employees, stating “we want this to proceed for the public sector as well.”
The position surprised MPs, though none responded directly. The allowance issue is expected to dominate discussions once the legislation passes.
Parliamentary committee reviews public sector remote work legislation
The Department of Public Administration representative confirmed telework will be restricted to employees’ residences, with performance monitoring based on work output rather than traditional supervision methods. The Cabinet will determine both the number of telework days and implementation timing.
Initial legislation included provisions for up to 100 telework days annually. This provision was subsequently removed, transferring authority to the Cabinet. Officials indicated telework will initially be implemented conservatively.
Basic requirements include job compatibility with remote work capabilities, excluding shift workers entirely. Employees must possess necessary technological equipment, including official computers and required systems. Secure connections will operate through office automation systems, providing access to professional files.
Union calls for parity with private sector telework benefits
PASYDY expressed satisfaction with flexible work arrangements, stating they will contribute to public sector modernisation. The union stressed the legislation ensures basic telework principles, equal treatment of employees, disconnection rights, and voluntary participation, alongside health and safety provisions.
ISOTITA stressed the need to explicitly define disconnection rights in the legislation, as applied in the broader public sector. Cyprus will implement the hybrid model used in other EU member states, combining office and remote work.
Currently, 3,150 civil servants possess official computers. The system will not be implemented immediately, pending required staff training and computer distribution. PASYDY advocates 2026 implementation.
Political parties expressed mixed views. DIKO’s Christiana Erotokritou questioned productivity measurement methods. DISY’s Savia Orfanidou supported the legislation’s efficiency objectives. AKEL’s Andreas Kafkalias raised data protection concerns. ELAM’s Sotiris Ioannou warned against institutional abuse. DIPA’s Elias Myrianthous questioned infrastructure readiness, while Alekos Tryfonidis noted concerns about removing specific telework day limits.
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