Trade unions representing hotel and leisure-centre workers in Cyprus are calling for immediate workplace inspections, warning that the growing use of temporary agency workers is undermining labour protections across the hospitality sector.

Unions Raise Legal And Contractual Concerns

Ouxeka-Sek and Syxka-Peo have written to Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas, Labour Relations Department Director Andis Apostolou and Labour Department Director Alexandros Alexandrou, urging the government to intervene.

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The unions said the increasing use of temporary agency workers in hotels and leisure centres has become a widespread problem. They argue the practice violates the Temporary Agency Work Law of 2012, Law 174(I)/2012, while also undermining collective agreements and labour regulations.

Pressure Mounts On Labour Oversight

The unions warned that the issue has been compounded by the new framework governing the employment of third-country workers. In their view, the combined effect is weakening labour protections and distorting competition across the hospitality sector.

Their intervention follows an earlier warning from the Labour Relations Department. In a letter dated June 17, 2025, Apostolou reminded hotel associations of their legal obligations under the existing framework.

The unions said the practice has nevertheless continued and is becoming more widespread, increasing pressure on the government to step up enforcement.

Part Of A Wider Pattern Across Key Sectors

The concerns in the hospitality sector follow similar warnings from the construction industry, where Peo, Sek and Deok said the growing use of temporary workers has led to violations of collective agreements, unsafe working conditions and the treatment of employees as disposable labour.

Meanwhile, the government has announced plans to double the number of labour inspectors from eight to 16 as part of efforts to strengthen enforcement against illegal and undeclared employment.

Call For Immediate Action

Ouxeka-Sek and Syxka-Peo are calling on the Labour Ministry to carry out immediate inspections at hotels and leisure centres, enforce compliance with labour legislation, stop unlawful practices and protect workers’ rights.