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The €1.2 billion investment agreement with Kition for the Larnaca port and marina project is under renewed scrutiny due to the dispute involving 15 workers recently laid off. As Philenews reports, these workers, terminated on July 3, argue they were treated unfairly and are demanding either reinstatement in the upcoming marina projects or "fair compensation" to aid in their job search.
The Transport Minister defended the Larnaca-Famagusta Development Company’s (ANETEL) actions, explaining that every effort was made to reassign the workers during the transitional period. He noted that some workers were paid despite not having assigned tasks, and emphasized that alternative positions were offered to some who declined them.
The Minister criticized the situation, particularly the employment of individuals who were underutilized and highly paid, calling it a misuse of taxpayer funds. He also noted an effort to re-employ one worker at Larnaca Municipality’s request but rejected the workers' demands for compensation beyond legal requirements.
The affected workers claim they were assured of temporary employment with ANETEL and allege they were pressured into signing agreements without proper consultation, leading to their sudden termination on July 31. They have sought support from local officials and political figures, including Larnaca's Mayor and DISY President Annita Demetriou, who have shown understanding of their plight.
Meanwhile, AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou criticized the agreement, emphasizing the importance of managing ports through the Port Authority, which he believes has the necessary expertise. He condemned the penalty clause in the agreement as a scandal and called for an investigation, citing its detrimental impact on the port’s future and the loss of a court case by the Cypriot state.
[Information sourced from Philenews]
