Justice Minister Costas Fytiris is determined to crack down on abuse of sick leave in the public sector, and plans to bring a bill to Parliament to regulate the system.
The Ministry said the state recognises the medical community’s essential role and the need to work with the Pancyprian Medical Association, so that procedures rest on scientific evidence, objectivity and ethical rules. Proper functioning of the system, it added, requires responsibility from everyone involved in granting, assessing and monitoring sick leave, and the proper institutional procedures will address any distortions identified.
Working with all relevant bodies and institutions, the Ministry is examining practical solutions and the changes needed to protect those who are genuinely ill while tackling the distortions already identified. Dialogue with the Pancyprian Medical Association will continue, with respect for its internal procedures.
According to information obtained by philenews, the minister has asked doctors to grant sick leave sparingly, and warned that any cases of illegality identified would prompt a request for an inquiry. The Audit Office has already forwarded details of doctors to the Law Office, after a check in the prisons.
