The government’s draft criteria for the employment of workers from third countries have faced strong opposition from trade unions Sek, Peo and Deok, who said their views had not been taken into account.

In a letter to Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou, the unions criticised the omission of key provisions included in the previous criteria. They expressed particular concern about the increase in the 25 percent deduction for housing third-country workers, which they argued strips workers of the right to choose their own accommodation. This, they said, raises concerns about a “concealed decrease in their remuneration.”

The unions also called for strengthening the framework regulating the tripartite advisory committee, emphasising the need for transparency and meritocracy in issuing work permits. They proposed enhancements to the committee’s operations to ensure fair representation and decision-making.

Additionally, the unions raised concerns over how other issues are being handled within the labour advisory body. They indicated that these matters would be discussed with other trade unions to address broader concerns.

Sek, Peo and Deok said socially fair regulations were necessary to guarantee quality and dignity in work.

In response to the trade unions, the labour department said it was gathering and evaluating the suggestions put forward by the social partners, with an aim to update the process before the end of the month.

It said the drop in unemployment and the gradual turn to conditions of full employment were positive developments in the labour market, which reflected the positive prospects of the economy.

The labour department added that the interest from locals for certain jobs was minimal and it was necessary to employ workers from abroad, such as in agriculture, farming and cleaning.