Newsroom
Cyprus’ forest firefighters will stage a 48-hour strike on May 25-26, accusing the Forestry Department of ignoring agreements designed to protect both firefighters and forests during wildfire operations.
The unions representing forest firefighters say the Department has stopped applying parts of the official Service Plan that were agreed with the government and implemented during last year’s firefighting season. According to the unions, the changes have significantly reduced the ability of crews to respond quickly to forest fires.
They also warn that the situation creates serious dangers for firefighters working on the front lines of wildfire suppression. Union representatives argue that the current practices place workers at risk while carrying out emergency operations.
Another major dispute concerns compensation for firefighters responsible for operating and maintaining heavy firefighting vehicles and equipment. The unions claim those payments are not being provided despite the responsibilities attached to the role.
The conflict intensified after firefighters were instructed by unions to follow the original Service Plan. According to the unions, the Director of the Forestry Department responded with threats of disciplinary action and sent warning letters to firefighters.
Union leaders say discussions with the Department failed to resolve the dispute. They describe the strike as an attempt to protect both forest firefighters and the forests they are tasked with defending during Cyprus’ fire season.
