The workforce in Cyprus’ broader public sector totalled 73,137 employees in the third quarter of 2024, according to a report released this week by the Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat).

For the first time, the data included details on the district local government organisations (Eoas), established in July 2024.

Employment within the general government reached 68,153, while government-controlled companies and enterprises employed 4,984 individuals.

Within the general government, which comprises the central government, non-profit organisations, and local authorities, employment was recorded at 52,690, 9,975, and 5,488 employees, respectively.

Compared to the same quarter in 2023, employment in the broader public sector increased by 830 employees, corresponding to a rise of 1.1 per cent.

Central government employment rose by 695 employees (1.1 per cent), and local authority employment surged by 962 employees (21.3 per cent).

However, employment in government-controlled companies and enterprises declined by 827 employees (-14.2 per cent).

The increase in local authority employment and the corresponding decrease in government-controlled enterprises were attributed to the establishment of the Eoas, which took over the responsibilities of water supply and sewerage boards from July 1, 2024.

Compared to Q2 2024, employment in the broader public sector fell by 2,577 employees (-3.4 per cent).

Local authorities saw a rise of 901 employees (19.6 per cent), while government-controlled companies and enterprises experienced a reduction of 719 employees (-12.6 per cent) due to the Eoas’ operations.

Finally, central government employment decreased by 2,759 employees (-4.2 per cent), primarily due to a reduction in fixed-term employees within the educational service.