Trade unions protest proposed changes to sick leave for public sector employees

The Isotita trade union has issued a statement opposing proposed changes to the sick leave framework for public sector employees, specifically targeting police officers and prison guards. The union contends that there is a systematic effort to create a negative public image of these workers, who face high levels of professional stress and physical strain. They argue that current sick leave procedures are already strictly regulated, involving medical certificates and potential review by a government medical board. The union rejects any reduction in benefits or restrictions on the right to take medical leave. According to the union, the reported rise in morbidity is a predictable outcome of understaffing and difficult working conditions rather than misuse of the system. International trade union representatives have also voiced strong opposition to the proposed cuts, warning that such measures unfairly impact thousands of employees. The government maintains that reforms are being considered to address concerns regarding the administration of leave policies.