Justice Minister Costas Fitiris has started a big plan. He wants to make the Cyprus Police Force more modern. The goal is to improve security and make police more professional. However, some police unions do not agree with this plan. This shows a problem between needing new ways and protecting police rights.
Minister Fitiris said quick action is very important. He explained, "Crime is increasing. We need better policing to make people feel safer." His plan has many parts. It wants to help police staff work better. He also wants police to be seen more. This means more patrols and special actions.
On the other hand, the AKEL party strongly disagrees. They say changing police work hours hurts important worker rules. AKEL thinks the government’s reasons for saving money are wrong. They also said that companies recently got tax breaks.
Things became more tense after Minister Fitiris supported a decision. This decision changed work hours for over 1,000 police officers. The Minister also warned union leaders. He said they might face punishment if they are not professional. He also said that unions must work within democratic rules.
Besides the police, Fitiris is also changing the prison system. This new plan should be ready by April. It will create 90 new jobs. It will also help prison guards get promoted based on their skills. A main part is separating daily work from union activities. An independent group will also be formed. These people will not be current prison guards. A director with much experience in prisons is needed.