Cement workers protested outside the labour ministry on Friday over a prolonged dispute that has brought the construction industry to a halt.

Workers have been on strike for two weeks due to a disagreement with employers over overtime pay.

Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou urged all parties involved to deal with the situation “which went from a small difference into a huge problem.” He expressed hope that better oversight of working conditions could lead to a positive resolution.

“We continue to believe that a constructive stance from all sides will lead to an agreement. This is necessary in restoring smoothness in the specific field and the construction industry.”

Panayiotou stressed his role was not to be a judge and assign blame but highlighted the importance of reaching a mutually acceptable solution. If it takes weeks or months for one side to cave, “the cost that Cyprus’ economy and society will pay will be greater than any benefit.”

Cement workers gathered at Eleftheria Square in Nicosia before marching to the labour ministry, where they delivered a letter outlining their demands.

Sek spokesman Theodoros Pylakouris, accompanied by Peo and Deok unions said the matter had been pending since 2013. Despite promises for talks to resume since 2020, nothing has happened to date.

“Employers refuse to give us what they promised they would.” They promised better conditions once the economy would return to normalcy but instead “we are met with indifference.”

The workers’ letter expressed deep dissatisfaction and called on the government to uphold workers’ rights.

A labour ministry proposal aimed at mediating the dispute was rejected by unions on Wednesday, prompting Panayiotou to voice concerns about the future of the construction industry.

The chamber of commerce (Keve) condemned the unions’ decision to throw out the proposal, saying the minister’s suggestion would have given them a 13 per cent pay increase.