The statement added, “The increase in accidents and deaths is a result of the authorities’ neglectful stance and inadequate inspection mechanisms“. It was emphasised that the responsibility for effective oversight lies with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The KTTB also noted that the Ministry must conduct concrete, effective, and decisive inspections in the field regarding workplace safety, and it called for the immediate requirement of mandatory workplace doctors to protect worker health.
In the statement, the KTTB declared, “As the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association, we wish to fulfil all our responsibilities on workplace safety and occupational health. We call on the Ministry of Labour to abandon this neglectful attitude and to take urgent steps for the safety of workers and a secure working environment“.
In a separate report, Yeniduzen writes that two people were arrested for their negligence in the death of Taimoor Ansar, who lost his life in a work accident. Police announced that AL (E-58) and MB (E-43) were arrested as part of the police investigation into the work accident that occurred today while a power line was being installed on the land on the Gönyeli – Boğazköy old main road. The investigation into the incident continues.
*Actions to improve work safety
North Cyprus has been actively working to improve workplace safety, especially in high-risk sectors like construction. Recent efforts have focused on stricter inspections, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with organisations like the Chamber of Construction Engineers and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Engineers and Architects. In early 2024, a workshop on occupational health and safety emphasised the importance of implementing existing safety laws, with leaders stressing a cultural shift towards prioritising worker welfare over profits. Officials called for enhanced inspection effectiveness and reported on recent investigations into workplace accidents to increase accountability in safety practices
Additionally, the government recently launched an amnesty programme aimed at registering undocumented workers, many of whom are employed in unsafe conditions in sectors such as construction. This initiative is expected to improve workplace conditions by ensuring that more workers have legal protection and access to social insurance. The Labour Department has also introduced training programs to address gaps in safety knowledge, highlighting a commitment to long-term improvements in workplace safety. [LGC News Ed.]
