Cyprus labor unions warn of risks from aging garbage truck fleets

Labor unions OHO-SEK and SHDIKEK-PEO have issued a joint warning regarding the safety of garbage truck operators in Cyprus following recent accidents in Paphos and Nicosia. The unions report that the situation has reached an ‘unbearable’ state due to the aging condition of the municipal and private waste collection fleets.

Data collected by the unions indicates that 40% of garbage trucks currently in operation within municipalities are over 20 years old, with some vehicles exceeding 30 years of age. The unions attribute this deterioration to the financial constraints faced by municipalities, which have hindered their ability to replace or renew their fleets in recent years. They also noted that local government reforms have failed to provide sufficient state support for purchasing new vehicles.

The unions are calling on the state to take responsibility by implementing stricter inspections and processes. They have urged the government to provide financial support to municipalities as part of the green transition to facilitate a full fleet renewal. The organizations have stated they will do everything possible to protect workers, including potential mobilization of local government employees if necessary.