Union Strike Held at Iskele Land Registry Office Due to Inadequate Conditions

A union-organized strike took place today, November 1, at the Iskele Land Registry Office, calling attention to the building’s lack of suitable facilities and a shortage of staff. The strike, intended as a warning to authorities, was organized by three public sector unions: KTAMS, KAMU-SEN, and KAMU-İ. The protest was held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with union representatives making statements to the press on-site.

Union representatives stated that the working conditions at the Land Registry Office, located in the Iskele Governor’s building, fall short of basic standards. They highlighted that, among other deficiencies, the office lacks an archival department.

At the protest, Güven Bengihan, President of the Cyprus Turkish Civil Servants Union (KTAMS), underscored the importance of the Land Registry, noting that it “handles transactions worth 30 million Turkish lira daily and makes a significant contribution to the state.”

Since the start of the year, the office has processed 2,400 contracts and completed 1,400 property title transfers (direct sales), underscoring its critical role.

"Who contributes more to the state's revenue than the Iskele Land Registry?" asked union leaders, emphasizing their concerns.

Union representatives insisted that the office must be relocated to a building with modern facilities as soon as possible. They noted that current conditions impact not only the staff but also the quality of service provided to the public.

Metin Atan, President of the Turkish Cypriot Public Employees Union (KAMU-SEN), reinforced these points, highlighting that the Iskele Land Registry is one of the most profitable and active offices in the country.

Union leaders warned that, should the government fail to address these issues, further strikes and protests may follow.