Cyprus hoteliers raise alarm over lifeguard shortage

Cyprus’ two largest tourism associations — PASYXE and STEK — have called on the authorities to urgently develop a national strategy to address the shortage of lifeguards. According to them, the lack of specialists is already affecting both public beaches and hotel swimming pools.

Hoteliers note that it is becoming increasingly difficult to staff lifeguard posts at organized beaches. In some places, duty hours are being reduced, while some observation towers remain closed due to a lack of personnel.

Additional pressure has been created by new safety requirements for hotel swimming pools, which have significantly increased demand for certified lifeguards.

The associations propose creating a special working group and developing a comprehensive training program. In particular, they believe it is necessary to provide young people, students and the unemployed with additional incentives to train and qualify as lifeguards.

In addition, representatives of the tourism sector propose increasing the number of permanent and long-term seasonal vacancies to make the profession more attractive. At the same time, they emphasize that any decisions must be made without compromising the safety of holidaymakers.

According to PASYXE and STEK, the problem has been aggravated by a difficult tourist season. Due to the tense geopolitical situation in the region, many hotels started operating later than usual or opened with a minimal number of staff. The sector is now counting on a rise in tourist numbers thanks to last-minute bookings and hopes to make up the staffing shortfall, including among lifeguards.