Politis

Cyprus Police Chief Defends Shift in Working Hours

Published January 21, 2026, 10:33
Cyprus Police Chief Defends Shift in Working Hours

The Chief of the Cyprus Police, Themistos Arnautis, defended the decision to align police working hours with those of the Public Service, characterizing it as a institutional obligation and not an arbitrary move. This alignment, provided for by legislation in 2019, aims to reduce the weekly working time from 40 to 37.5 hours. Arnautis emphasized that the implementation of the new schedule has been delayed, but the current leadership is proceeding with its implementation as part of a comprehensive reorganization and modernization of the Police. This change is considered necessary to enhance operational readiness and improve the quality of life for police officers. He noted that the decision was made following studies by independent experts, who concluded that adjusting schedules is a prerequisite for a modern and effective Police force. He also mentioned that the change takes into account the increased demands in view of the Cypriot Presidency of the EU. The Chief of Police assured that the implementation of the new schedule is based on operational needs and public safety, and that it is not directed against police officers, but is done for and with them. However, the matter is before the courts and for this reason he did not make any further statements.