The telecommunications industry in Cyprus is currently facing a significant challenge, as approximately 600 installers find themselves without the necessary licenses to continue their work. These installers, responsible for tasks such as setting up telephone and internet lines, have been operating legally for years but now face obstacles due to new certification regulations introduced by the Office of the Commissioner of Electronic Communications and Postal Regulation (OCECPR).
The situation primarily affects licensed electricians who had previously received certification from CYTA after passing a written exam. However, with the regulatory authority now under the OCECPR, installers are required to pass new exams to maintain their licenses. The new regulations set a high passing threshold of 75% for both the theoretical and practical portions of the exam, leading to only 30% of the first group of electricians passing.
The consequences of failing the exam are immediate and severe. Installers who do not pass are not considered licensed, meaning they cannot request complete installation connections from telecommunications providers. This leaves their clients at risk and puts a halt to their work in the industry until they can retake and pass the exam.
The Cyprus Licensed Electrical Contractors Association has been vocal in its opposition to the new regulations. President George Kyriakou has criticized the high passing threshold, noting that it is significantly higher than the 50% required for other important exams in electrical safety and management. Additionally, the hefty exam fee of €220, which must be paid again for a retake, has been a point of contention for many installers.
Furthermore, the association has raised concerns about contradictions in the new regulations. While the aim is to ensure a high level of competency among certified installers, other professionals involved in installations, such as planners, are not required to take any exams. This has led to confusion and frustration among installers who feel unfairly targeted by the new regulations.
The situation escalated when a second group of installers scheduled to take the exam withdrew their participation and demanded refunds of the exam fee. This led to the cancellation of the exam, leaving hundreds of professionals in the field at a standstill and uncertain about their future in the industry.
Overall, the telecommunications industry in Cyprus is facing a challenging period as installers navigate the new certification regulations introduced by the OCECPR. The concerns raised by the Cyprus Licensed Electrical Contractors Association highlight the need for a balanced and fair approach to regulating the profession to ensure the continued operation of experienced and skilled professionals in the field.
