Karoullas to Palma: Immediate Bill Submission for Contract Soldiers (SYOP)

DISY MP Giorgos Karoullas, in a letter to the Minister of Defence, Vasilis Palma, stressed the need for immediate submission of a bill for Contract Soldiers (SYOP).

Mr. Karoullas points out that the SYOP institution is facing degradation, with hundreds of vacant positions and structural weaknesses that affect the operational adequacy of the National Guard.

He recalled the submission of a comprehensive package of proposals from November 18, 2025, to retain and attract SYOP, covering salary, institutional issues, and professional development issues.

Mr. Karoullas requests a specific timetable for the completion of the planning and the submission of a bill to Parliament, as well as informing the Parliamentary Defence Committee.

He expressed his concern about the uncertain situation and the need to accelerate reforms for the defence of the Republic of Cyprus, stressing that strengthening the SYOP institution is a matter of strategic importance.