Forest fire fighters announce 48-hour strike in Cyprus

Trade unions representing forest firefighters and fire watchmen in Cyprus have announced a 48-hour warning strike scheduled for May 25 and 26, 2026. The unions, including SEK, PEO, and DEOK, sent a formal letter to the Director of the Department of Forests and the Ministry of Finance. The workers allege that the Department of Forests management has repeatedly refused to implement the agreed-upon Service Plan and decisions reached by the Joint Labour Committee. Furthermore, the workers claim they have been subjected to intimidation and threats of disciplinary action for expressing their concerns. The strike comes at a critical time as the summer fire season begins, raising concerns about the potential exposure of forests to fire risks. The unions have warned that they will escalate their industrial action if the Department fails to comply with the previously established agreements. The Ministry of Finance has been notified, signaling a move to involve the central government in resolving the dispute. Sources within the Department of Forests suggest an official response is expected within 24 hours to prevent the potential labor deadlock.