Cyprus calls for targeted action against economic downturn

Cypriot Minister of Employment and Social Insurance Sotiroulla Charalambous has called for targeted action in response to the strains on the labour market, as a result of the economic downturn.

Speaking during an informal meeting of EU Ministers of Employment and Social Affairs, in Jonkoping, Sweden, Charalambous said the biggest challenge is drafting and implementing policies which will be effective not only in the short-term but also in the long-term, in line with goals such as high employment, job quality and integration of everybody in the labour market, including vulnerable groups.

Referring to Cyprus, Charalambous said that the access of women to the labour market ranks high in the political agenda, adding however that more work needs to be done to reconcile family life with work.

Regarding the guidelines on employment, Charalambous said these should support mechanisms of continuous education and systems of life-long learning, which are adapted to the ageing population, constant environmental changes and technological innovation.

During the discussion on the EU directive on working time, Charalambous reiterated Cyprus' standing position that a solution which does not clearly refer to the annulment of the opt-out clause cannot be accepted.

She added that a new discussion on the issue calls for adequate preparation which would examine all issues so that a balanced and comprehensive package will be agreed on, which will take into account the positions of the European Parliament.