Inter-ministerial meeting addresses public sector sick leave abuse

On June 19, 2026, an inter-ministerial meeting took place at the Ministry of Justice and Public Order in Cyprus to address chronic issues regarding sick leave abuse among public servants, particularly within the police and prison services. The meeting was attended by Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris, Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos, Minister of Health Neofytos Charalambidis, and Minister of Labor Marinos Mousiouttas. Officials highlighted that excessive absenteeism disrupts essential services and places an undue burden on remaining staff. Proposed measures include administrative, legislative, and audit-related reforms to ensure transparency and accountability. One potential proposal being considered is to adjust sick leave compensation to 65% of wages for extended absences, mirroring practices in the private sector. The Audit Office has also flagged suspicious medical certificates, particularly in the prison department, which are currently being investigated by the Legal Service. Future steps involve consultations with public sector unions before submitting formal proposals to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament.