TC leader Ersin Tatar has faced strong criticism from labour unions following his recent statements regarding the minimum wage in North Cyprus.
The controversy erupted when Tatar, drawing on his background as an economist educated at Cambridge, stated, “If I say ‘let’s increase the minimum wage’, it will be a betrayal to my studying years at Cambridge, it will be a shame.” He also claimed, “There is no minimum wage like ours,” apparently referring to the current wage levels.
These comments provoked immediate and strong reactions from union leaders. Ahmet Serdaroğlu, the employees’ representative Head of HÜR-İŞ, questioned Tatar’s absence during previous wage increases and suggested that the TC leader might be insulated from inflation due to his official position. Serdaroğlu urged Tatar to “Stop visiting funerals and weddings” and instead focus on stopping inflation.
Similarly, Arslan Bıçaklı, Head of Turkish Cypriot Trade Union (TÜRK-SEN) pointed out a 300 percent increase in costs for consumer goods, health, and education. Bıçaklı argued that minimum wage earners receive “salaries below the hunger line” and accused Tatar of ignoring these issues and representing capital interests.
In response to the backlash, Tatar attempted to clarify his position. He claimed his statement about the minimum wage was taken out of context and affirmed his support for increasing people’s living standards. Tatar also noted that the current minimum wage in North Cyprus is higher than in some EU countries.
