Labor Minister responds to industry staff shortages, urges caution in demands

In response to demands from employer representatives regarding staff shortages in retail, catering, and the hotel industry, Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Yiannis Panayiotou, expressed surprise at the intensity of these requests. During a recent press conference attended by six professional associations, Panayiotou urged all parties to adopt a more measured tone and avoid creating unnecessary panic. He questioned the need for phrases such as "turning on the faucet," emphasizing the government's commitment to managing employment procedures responsibly.

Addressing concerns about delays in approving applications for third-country workers and the push for more foreign employees, Panayiotou acknowledged existing needs. However, he stressed the importance of adhering to legal procedures and government policies to ensure controlled immigration. Panayiotou questioned the preference for third-country workers over EU citizens or unemployed Cypriots.

The Minister disclosed plans to release data on labor sectors, detailing the proportions of local, EU, and third-country workers. This information aims to verify adherence to established quotas and identify any additional labor requirements accurately.