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Cabinet Approves Bill For A Patient Advocate

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 30, 2024

The Council of Ministers has approved a bill to institute a Patient Advocate, with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, underlining, during the Cabinet meeting, the importance of the health sector as a key priority for the government.

President Christodoulides on 29 August explained that the independent institution of the Patient Advocate will have the authority to examine complaints and claims concerning patients’ rights, not only within the General Healthcare System (GHS) but also outside of it. It will also, he continued, be responsible, among many other things, for providing information and preparing relevant recommendations.

He also noted that the decision also establishes an Advisory Committee, whose mission will be to support the work and actions of the Patient Advocate, while at the same time the role and responsibilities of the Committees for the Examination of Patient Complaints will be strengthened.

Health Minister, Michael Damianos, speaking after the Cabinet meeting said that “with this bill, the Ministry of Health is taking a decisive step towards ensuring the rights of patients, both within and outside the GHS.”

He added that the innovations promoted through the proposed bill are crucial for strengthening patients’ rights and improving the quality of health services in the country.

Damianos urged the House of Representatives to proceed with its vote for the implementation of this important initiative that will have a direct positive impact on society.

The Minister of Health also announced a decree, as of 29 August, to repeal all measures relating to COVID 19 which remained in force, including the use of masks in hospitals and nursing homes.

Illegal Employment on the Rise in Cyprus as Undeclared Work Declines

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2024

A recent report on the labour market in Cyprus has revealed a worrying increase in illegal employment, even as the rate of undeclared work shows signs of decline. The findings, which were discussed during a parliamentary session, have raised concerns among lawmakers and authorities alike about the ongoing challenges in combating labour exploitation and maintaining fair employment practices.

According to data presented by the Ministry of Labour, the issue of illegal employment—workers being hired without proper work permits or contracts—has escalated in recent months. This rise comes at a time when efforts to reduce undeclared work, where employees are not registered or insured, have seen moderate success. Despite progress in regulating the labour market, illegal employment remains a significant issue, especially in industries such as construction, agriculture, and hospitality.

Understanding the Distinction Between Illegal and Undeclared Employment

Illegal employment refers to the hiring of individuals who are not legally permitted to work, often due to their immigration status or lack of proper documentation. These workers are typically vulnerable to exploitation, receiving lower wages and lacking access to basic protections such as healthcare and social security benefits. In contrast, undeclared work involves the employment of individuals who may be legally allowed to work but are not officially registered, depriving them of insurance coverage and other legal protections.

While authorities have made strides in reducing undeclared work, particularly through stricter inspections and penalties, the rise in illegal employment presents a new challenge. Lawmakers pointed out that illegal employment poses even greater risks, as it not only harms the workers involved but also undermines the integrity of the labour market and contributes to unfair competition among businesses.

Factors Driving Illegal Employment

Several factors contribute to the increase in illegal employment, according to the Ministry of Labour. One key driver is the influx of migrant workers, many of whom lack the necessary documentation to work legally in Cyprus. Without proper channels for legal employment, these individuals often turn to unregulated jobs where they are vulnerable to exploitation.

The growing demand for cheap labour, particularly in sectors like construction and agriculture, also plays a significant role. Employers seeking to cut costs may resort to hiring illegal workers, bypassing the legal requirements for contracts, wages, and benefits. This practice not only puts workers at risk but also creates an uneven playing field, where businesses that comply with legal standards struggle to compete with those exploiting illegal labour.

Efforts to Combat Illegal Employment

In response to these findings, the government has pledged to intensify its efforts to combat illegal employment. This includes increasing inspections, imposing harsher penalties on employers found guilty of hiring illegal workers, and strengthening collaboration with immigration authorities. Additionally, there is a push to create more pathways for legal employment for migrant workers, ensuring they can enter the labour market with proper documentation and protections.