Lifeguards call off strike after minister pledges improvements (updated)

Lifeguards on Thursday called off a planned three-hour nationwide work stoppage planned for Friday.

The decision to cancel the strike came after a meeting between the lifeguards’ association (Psen), Interior Minister Nicos Nouris and trade unions.

Lifeguards received assurances that the government will look into their grievances, the main one concerning their salaries and working conditions.

The ministry also pledged to fast-track a call for tenders for the construction of 45 watch towers, as well as to immediately purchase five additional jet skis for seaside districts.

The government will additionally procure other gear for lifeguards – defibrillators and portable radio units – costing €115,300.

The ministry promised to continue discussing lifeguards’ demands over their work hours, wages and terms of employment.

Earlier in the day, the lifeguards’ association had called for their profession to be officially regulated like it is in the rest of the EU, “as it involves providing first aid and saving human lives on the beaches of Cyprus.

“The safeguarding of our rights and the upgrading of our working conditions will help increase the safety of our beaches, both for our compatriots and for tourists who will visit our country all year round,” their association said.