Union of Municipalities considers strike over funding disputes

The Union of Municipalities of Cyprus is planning a three-hour work stoppage to protest government policies regarding local government funding. The decision was reached unanimously during a meeting held in Latsia on Friday. Union President and Mayor of Larnaca, Andreas Vyras, stated that municipalities are under significant financial pressure, citing fixed state grants versus rising operational costs. Specific concerns include the rising costs of waste management and the repayment of a 16 million euro debt to the Kosi and Pentakomo waste processing units. While the Union has finalized its intent to take action, it is waiting for a formal written response from the Ministry of Interior. The Minister has reportedly expressed a positive attitude toward the municipal demands in preliminary discussions. A final decision on the strike will be made next week once the government's official written position is received and reviewed by the Union's Board.