Public service unions threaten strikes over migration authority transfer delays

The PASYDY union and the Social Services Officers branch have threatened industrial action if a binding timeline for transferring responsibilities from the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare to the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection is not established. The unions demand a clear implementation plan by May 21, 2026, with a maximum completion horizon of one year. This follows delays in implementing a Council of Ministers decision from December 16, 2025, which mandated that the migration ministry take over housing programs for unaccompanied minors by January 1, 2026. The original decision also required a comprehensive roadmap for transferring additional duties regarding international protection applicants and vulnerable groups within three months. PASYDY claims this timeline was never submitted and that a recently tabled government bill maintains certain responsibilities under the Social Welfare Ministry instead. Representatives expressed their concerns during a meeting with Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Clea Papaellina. In response, the Deputy Minister committed to presenting a proposal with a clear transfer schedule to the Council of Ministers within one month.