Public servants in Cyprus will be limited to working remotely for a maximum of four days per month, according to an amendment proposed by the Democratic Rally (DISY) party. The amendment is scheduled to be put to a vote in the House Plenary today alongside the government’s related bill.
While the government’s draft legislation provided that the Council of Ministers would determine the maximum number of remote working days per calendar year, the DISY amendment specifically states that the total number of remote working days “shall not exceed four days per calendar month” for each employee.
An employee will have the option to utilise these four days either accumulated throughout the month or as one day per week. DISY has reportedly been engaging with other parties to secure the necessary majority for the amendment, with the final decisions of the remaining parliamentary groups expected today.
The government bill seeks to introduce mixed work (primarily physical presence) into the public sector. This measure represents a milestone in the government’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, which is linked to the disbursement of the seventh instalment of European funding due by the end of 2025.
Key prerequisites
The legislation sets out several conditions for the implementation of remote work:
- Voluntary and not a Right: The option to work remotely is voluntary and does not constitute a right for the employee.
- Service Requirement: Employees must have completed at least one year in their current post or duties to be eligible (with certain exceptions for new hires with relevant experience).
- Feasibility and Approval: Remote work must be feasible based on the nature of the duties and the required technological means. Approval must be granted by the relevant supervisor, taking into account departmental needs and ensuring the smooth operation of the service.
- Equipment: Departments must supply employees with the necessary technological equipment, including a work laptop and a fast, secure internet connection at the remote workspace.
The Ministry of Finance is also tasked with issuing guidelines for the effective application of the legislation, including instructions to employees on preventive and protective measures while remote working.
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