Newsroom
The Cyprus Hotel Association (PASYXE) says it has received no reports or evidence of illegal employment at hotels represented by the association, while inviting anyone with information to come forward.
PASYXE Director General Christos Angelides was responding to allegations from the SEK and PEO trade unions concerning the use of third-party labour in hotels.
The association says no complaint has been submitted to it to date that would substantiate claims of unlawful employment at any of its member establishments.
That leaves a clear message from PASYXE: if anyone has evidence, they should report it.
Angelides called on anyone in possession of specific information pointing to a breach of labour legislation or collective agreements to submit it to the competent authorities.
The comments come as the hotel industry continues to deal with a shortage of available workers. PASYXE says the recruitment of staff remains one of the sector's major challenges and points to licensed employment agencies recruiting workers from third countries as one option permitted under Cyprus law.
Such arrangements are lawful provided the relevant rules are followed and workers' rights are protected, Angelides said.
PASYXE also stressed that hotels are expected to comply fully with labour legislation and the terms of collective agreements.
For the association, the distinction is important. The use of employment agencies is permitted, but any employer or arrangement that breaches the law or collective bargaining agreements can be reported to the relevant authorities.
Angelides also called for cooperation between employers, trade unions and other stakeholders, arguing that tourism's importance to the Cypriot economy makes the sector's ability to operate competitively and sustainably a shared responsibility.
