Cyprus Times

Police Unions Announce Protests Over Schedule Change, Fytiris Warns of Consequences

Published January 2, 2026, 16:09
Police Unions Announce Protests Over Schedule Change, Fytiris Warns of Consequences

The Minister of Justice and Public Order, Kostas Fytiris, met with representatives of the Police Unions of Cyprus (Association of Police Cyprus and the Police Branch of the ISOTITA trade union) to discuss reactions to the recent decision to change police schedules. The Minister emphasized the functioning of democracy and the right to unionize, but warned that this should not exceed the regulations and hierarchy of the Police. He reminded that the Chief of Police has the authority to issue orders that must be executed, even by those who disagree, and that there are legal procedures for submitting complaints. Fytiris clarified that the decision on the schedule was not political, but based on the Chief of Police's responsibilities for the smooth operation of the force. He warned that any attempt to bypass the hierarchy through public disputes or the media will not be accepted. The President of the ISOTITA trade union, Nikos Loizidis, warned of measures that would “cause inconvenience”, expressing the union’s dissatisfaction with the Chief of Police’s announcements regarding the schedule. The government insists on the need for discipline and collective effort in the Police, in order to effectively address organized crime and illegality. The Minister of Justice warned that anyone who does not comply with the rules will face the consequences.