Port workers call off strike

Port unions called off a 48-hour strike on Wednesday after receiving a set of proposals for their pension benefits and employment conditions after post privatisation from Transport Minister Marios Demetriades.
The strike was set to start on Thursday at Limassol port.
Proposals grouped the employees in three categories. One will opt to retire voluntarily; one is guaranteed work in the public sector, and the other will continue to work for the ports for whatever investor takes over from the Ports Authority.
Port workers said they still had concerns but decided not to strike out of good will.
They are expected to meet with Demetriades in the beginning of September to put forth their response after reviewing their proposals.
“A strike could result in people losing their jobs or businesses that are in a difficult situation at the moment due to the financial crisis,” Demetriades said on state radio.
A plan on the organisational structure and the reposting of staff is currently being prepared by PWC.
Earlier this month, Limassol port workers went on a 24-hour strike saying there was no progress in discussions with the government over a voluntary retirement scheme.
Last month, the House Communications and Works committee approved €27m in compensation for 31 licensed porters, and €1m for their 62 employees, who are now negotiating for an extra €500,000 to be added in the compensation package.

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