Cyprus parliamentary committee reviews unemployment benefits for education support staff

On September 9, 2026, the Parliamentary Education Committee in Cyprus discussed the lack of income for approximately 300 indefinite-term contract employees working in the Ministry of Education's support programs during the summer months. These staff members currently face four months of unpaid leave, creating significant financial instability for their families.

Following a proposal by AKEL MPs Christos Christofides, Anastasia Chasikou, and Ephraim Christou, the issue was brought before the Ministry of Finance. Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos is currently evaluating the potential impact on public finances. There is an expressed intent from the Ministry to find a solution, possibly through an exceptional payment for this year, to establish a framework for future protection of these workers.

Committee Chair Chrysanthos Savvides emphasized that these support programs are vital to the national education system and that employment conditions must ensure security for educators. While the issue remains currently unresolved, officials from the Ministries of Education, Labor, and Finance are tasked with finding a sustainable compromise to ensure teachers receive fair compensation and retain their livelihood.