The recent decision of the Cyprus government to transform the Larnaca Refinery into fuel terminal has given rise to vigorous protests on behalf of politicians and trade unions.

Former Commerce Minister, Nicos Rolandis, has expressed the view that the government should not ignore the eight-year study carried out by experts that proposed the upgrading of the refinery and proved that they would contribute more than CYP 60 million to the state.

OMEPEGE SEK (Cyprus Workers’ Confederation) General Secretary, Pantelis Stavrou, supported that the government has violated the agreement with the trade unions. “The decision will harm the labour relations of the island”, he added.

Former Mare of the city of Larnaca Giorgos Lykourgos, considers that the decision will hit the interests of the Larnaca citizens.

DISY has assigned Deputy Chairman, Averof Neophytou, to investigate the issue.

Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism

In return, Commerce Minister, Giorgos Lillikas said that this option was the cheapest among all alternatives, since the number of employees will reduce.

It is noted that the study carried out by experts reports that the modification of the refineries into storage terminal would have an increased social cost, as a number of employees would be dismissed six years prior than estimated.

Mr. Lillikas said that pursuant to the figures, 125 persons are currently working for the refineries, while 17 have been employed for the purpose of upgrading.

The Minister has expressed the government’s intention to employ the refinery employees in other sectors, but clarified that it cannot offer them a post in the government.

Mr. Lillikas expressed the hope that the employees will not proceed to further strikes.