Complaint Review: Final Correspondence With Meritservus/MeritKapital

After consulting a lawyer I was advised not to proceed with my own site. 

Almost 1 year has elapsed and Meritservus has yet to pay my salary for days worked. It is clear that the money will not be forthcoming.

The individual (HotmNichola) who was treated the same way after I left never did contact me again. All I can surmise is that the Ioannides clan paid him to be quiet.

My informant in Meritservus ceased to respond. Hope that the person was not murdered by the Ioannides clan!

The Cyprus department of labour never did resolve the dispute. Who knows, maybe they were paid off by Demetrius Ioannides also? Or worse, threatened with death?

Well, this is it. Farewell Meritservus. It has taken me a while to get over this one but I think I am finally over it.

Thinking of working for Meritservus or Meritechnus? Or any of the other Merit offshoots? Well, a good read of this report will help you make up your mind soon.

This appears to be a new offshoot of the Meritservus group. The contact details are:
Eftapaton Court, 256 Makarios, CY-3105 Limassol-Cyprus P.O. Box 53180, CY-3301 Limassol-Cyprus Telephone: +357 5 867 000, Fax: +357 5 561 892
Aside from the telephone number, it appears this organization is in the same building as Meritservus.
I looked at their website and it has the following to say under values:
Honesty/Creativity/Quality/Learning/Teamwork
Regarding honesty: I would caution anyone to turn around and run 100 miles per hour from anything that has 'Merit' in its name.
Regarding Creativity: Reptella (Persella Ioannides) would not know creativity even if it stared her right in the mouth.
Regarding Teamwork: If this offshoot is anything similar, then teamwork does not exist. Just read my posts on Goran Pesic.

Well, I shall keep you posted. In the meantime, do not forget to check back for the Go Live announcement of the MeritScam (c) website in the next few weeks.

I heard from an acquaintance at Meritservus. I cannot mention the name of this person for obvious reasons. I was provided with certain important information. The details at this time are irrelevant.

It is about 3 months since I left the organization and they continue to withhold my pay unlawfully and also refuse to recompense me for the financial loss I suffered as a result of this experience.

True to my promise, I shall be completing my Meritservus-Scam (MeritScam) website soon. I will make an announcement here on Ripoff-Report before it goes live.

The website shall contain Anonymous Post/Reply features so that visitors can view and exchange contact information, a feature that RipOffReport does not support. Visitors may also elect to reveal identity. Provision will be made for a pseudo screen name so that posts can be easily distinguishable.

There are some really disturbing items that will appear in the news portion at the time of launch.

Why am I going to these lengths? Meritservus/Meritkapital has inflicted a great injury on me both psychologically and in terms of financial distress.

The MeritScam (actual name) website includes a web search algorithm that will correlate news items with user posts by retrieving key phrases of interest. Items of key interest will be stored in a vector (lookup table) and matched using fuzzy logic. The visitors will also be able to enter key phrases into the dynamic lookup table. The reason I am implementing it this way is to incorporate old news items as well as new items and a search feature that unlike Google returns the same links every time.

Since my last update, I imagine Pesic has been reprimanded by the Ioannides trio for providing more reason for me to continue my posts. Not that this would prevent me, as I shall continue to make frequent updates as I see fit. I am also thinking of setting up a new web site devoted to this cause.

I think back to my first encounter with Pesic. After I had tried to allay his insecurities by informing him that I wished to work in a low-stress environment because of my depression, he presumptuously commented that he would cure my condition by taking me out to a disco for a night with a lot of fine women and drink. To mention this made me feel quite sick would be an understatement, for this was just the beginning of my problems with Pesic. The realization that I would have to be dealing with this Neanderthal fool would be enough to make any reasonable person want to puke. It also made me think of the kind of person Demetrios Ioannides might be for hiring someone of Pesic's caliber.

The days that followed confirmed my concerns. It also became clearly evident why Reptella purposely declined to provide Pesic's contact information she must have known that had I communicated with Pesic, it might have led to me refusing to accept her offer of employment. I had wanted to spend some more time chatting with Pesic to acquire an idea of what sort of chemistry to expect and also help me decide if this job were a fit or no.
Once again, I should have stayed with my first decision not to join the Merit Group of Companies. Anyone taking my warnings lightly will be very sorry. I know that I have stated in previous posts how a prospective employee should be weary of a contract with Meritservus however, the fact remains, it does not matter what the contract states in hindsight - Meritservus has no regard for legally binding contracts. I can only wonder when the next debacle with an employee or investor will take place. Perhaps they treat their investors better than their employees? I don't think so

Seems like I must have touched a nerve where Goran Pesic is concerned. He probably spent several days trying to sort out grammar issues and breaking his dimwit head to write a rebuttal. What was the fool hoping to accomplish? Probably even he does not know what was going on inside his stupid head. Rather than waste my effort on trying to understand Goran's irrelevant thoughts, let me focus on the important issues at hand:
1) Goran Pesic is the undisputed Network Administrator at Meritservus/meritkapital. For all I know, he works at all the merit group of companies. Demetrios Ioannides would be hard pressed to replace him because he (Ioannides) would not easily find someone to communicate at Demetrios' level. Goran is too stupid to realize he is being used and abused by the Ioannides clan. One might say the relationship is mutually abusive.
2) Goran is typical of the culture at Meritservus. He would find it extremely difficult to acquire work outside of Meritservus.
3) Goran lacks critical thinking skills. He also lacks communication skills in the workplace.
4) Goran survives at meritservus by retaining control over his little kingdom - a stuffy, 15 by 10 foot computer 'control' room in a third rate building next door to the second rate building (Eftapaton court) of Meritservus. Goran and his assistant keep the door locked and will refuse to see anyone without an appointment. Who knows what idle hands find to do behind the closed door? I might surmise he surfs porn sites, spies on Meritservus employees and on occasion restricts employees' network rights to reassert his authority. Aside from this, he is probably idle. Goran's thoughts are completely transparent - all one has to see is how he projects his thoughts onto others. He is from a fourth rate country (Serbia), in a fifth rate part of the world. Why, his village may not even have running water...
5) Goran was the one who requested help from the clan in the form of an extra developer. Actually, there was no need to hire any new person since Goran's real intention was to expand his kingdom. Goran and Demetrios are obsessive about control. At times I wondered which of the two was really in control. For example, during an early meeting in Demetrios' office, Demetrios went to extraordinary lengths to praise and appease Goran who uttered vile threats against me (day 2!).
Pesic is the primary reason I am no longer at Meritservus. He got his way, but only because I did not care to continue at meritservus.

As for my outstanding wages - these are still not forthcoming. Expect to see regular updates.

Once again, be warned: do not believe a word of what the Ioannides clan tell you in order to lure you to work at the merit group of companies. You will not only forego wages, but you will experience much undue stress, unpleasantness and suffering. The memory is not easy to forget. Although I am almost over it, I am still smarting on occasion.
On the other hand, if you are from a similar background to Goran, that is, a poor country with poor prospects, you may be tempted. Ask for 3 months pay in advance, a sign-on bonus, a substantial relocation package. Have the contract state that your wages are paid in advance on the first of each month. Don't say to anyone you were not warned! Young graduates are especially susceptible - you must realize you will be dealing with reptiles.

Seems like I must have touched a nerve where Goran Pesic is concerned. He probably spent several days trying to sort out grammar issues and breaking his dimwit head to write a rebuttal. What was the fool hoping to accomplish? Probably even he does not know what was going on inside his stupid head. Rather than waste my effort on trying to understand Goran's irrelevant thoughts, let me focus on the important issues at hand:
1) Goran Pesic is the undisputed Network Administrator at Meritservus/meritkapital. For all I know, he works at all the merit group of companies. Demetrios Ioannides would be hard pressed to replace him because he (Ioannides) would not easily find someone to communicate at Demetrios' level. Goran is too stupid to realize he is being used and abused by the Ioannides clan. One might say the relationship is mutually abusive.
2) Goran is typical of the culture at Meritservus. He would find it extremely difficult to acquire work outside of Meritservus.
3) Goran lacks critical thinking skills. He also lacks communication skills in the workplace.
4) Goran survives at meritservus by retaining control over his little kingdom - a stuffy, 15 by 10 foot computer 'control' room in a third rate building next door to the second rate building (Eftapaton court) of Meritservus. Goran and his assistant keep the door locked and will refuse to see anyone without an appointment. Who knows what idle hands find to do behind the closed door? I might surmise he surfs porn sites, spies on Meritservus employees and on occasion restricts employees' network rights to reassert his authority. Aside from this, he is probably idle. Goran's thoughts are completely transparent - all one has to see is how he projects his thoughts onto others. He is from a fourth rate country (Serbia), in a fifth rate part of the world. Why, his village may not even have running water...
5) Goran was the one who requested help from the clan in the form of an extra developer. Actually, there was no need to hire any new person since Goran's real intention was to expand his kingdom. Goran and Demetrios are obsessive about control. At times I wondered which of the two was really in control. For example, during an early meeting in Demetrios' office, Demetrios went to extraordinary lengths to praise and appease Goran who uttered vile threats against me (day 2!).
Pesic is the primary reason I am no longer at Meritservus. He got his way, but only because I did not care to continue at meritservus.

As for my outstanding wages - these are still not forthcoming. Expect to see regular updates.

Once again, be warned: do not believe a word of what the Ioannides clan tell you in order to lure you to work at the merit group of companies. You will not only forego wages, but you will experience much undue stress, unpleasantness and suffering. The memory is not easy to forget. Although I am almost over it, I am still smarting on occasion.
On the other hand, if you are from a similar background to Goran, that is, a poor country with poor prospects, you may be tempted. Ask for 3 months pay in advance, a sign-on bonus, a substantial relocation package. Have the contract state that your wages are paid in advance on the first of each month. Don't say to anyone you were not warned! Young graduates are especially susceptible - you must realize you will be dealing with reptiles.

Seems like I must have touched a nerve where Goran Pesic is concerned. He probably spent several days trying to sort out grammar issues and breaking his dimwit head to write a rebuttal. What was the fool hoping to accomplish? Probably even he does not know what was going on inside his stupid head. Rather than waste my effort on trying to understand Goran's irrelevant thoughts, let me focus on the important issues at hand:
1) Goran Pesic is the undisputed Network Administrator at Meritservus/meritkapital. For all I know, he works at all the merit group of companies. Demetrios Ioannides would be hard pressed to replace him because he (Ioannides) would not easily find someone to communicate at Demetrios' level. Goran is too stupid to realize he is being used and abused by the Ioannides clan. One might say the relationship is mutually abusive.
2) Goran is typical of the culture at Meritservus. He would find it extremely difficult to acquire work outside of Meritservus.
3) Goran lacks critical thinking skills. He also lacks communication skills in the workplace.
4) Goran survives at meritservus by retaining control over his little kingdom - a stuffy, 15 by 10 foot computer 'control' room in a third rate building next door to the second rate building (Eftapaton court) of Meritservus. Goran and his assistant keep the door locked and will refuse to see anyone without an appointment. Who knows what idle hands find to do behind the closed door? I might surmise he surfs porn sites, spies on Meritservus employees and on occasion restricts employees' network rights to reassert his authority. Aside from this, he is probably idle. Goran's thoughts are completely transparent - all one has to see is how he projects his thoughts onto others. He is from a fourth rate country (Serbia), in a fifth rate part of the world. Why, his village may not even have running water...
5) Goran was the one who requested help from the clan in the form of an extra developer. Actually, there was no need to hire any new person since Goran's real intention was to expand his kingdom. Goran and Demetrios are obsessive about control. At times I wondered which of the two was really in control. For example, during an early meeting in Demetrios' office, Demetrios went to extraordinary lengths to praise and appease Goran who uttered vile threats against me (day 2!).
Pesic is the primary reason I am no longer at Meritservus. He got his way, but only because I did not care to continue at meritservus.

As for my outstanding wages - these are still not forthcoming. Expect to see regular updates.

Once again, be warned: do not believe a word of what the Ioannides clan tell you in order to lure you to work at the merit group of companies. You will not only forego wages, but you will experience much undue stress, unpleasantness and suffering. The memory is not easy to forget. Although I am almost over it, I am still smarting on occasion.
On the other hand, if you are from a similar background to Goran, that is, a poor country with poor prospects, you may be tempted. Ask for 3 months pay in advance, a sign-on bonus, a substantial relocation package. Have the contract state that your wages are paid in advance on the first of each month. Don't say to anyone you were not warned! Young graduates are especially susceptible - you must realize you will be dealing with reptiles.

Seems like I must have touched a nerve where Goran Pesic is concerned. He probably spent several days trying to sort out grammar issues and breaking his dimwit head to write a rebuttal. What was the fool hoping to accomplish? Probably even he does not know what was going on inside his stupid head. Rather than waste my effort on trying to understand Goran's irrelevant thoughts, let me focus on the important issues at hand:
1) Goran Pesic is the undisputed Network Administrator at Meritservus/meritkapital. For all I know, he works at all the merit group of companies. Demetrios Ioannides would be hard pressed to replace him because he (Ioannides) would not easily find someone to communicate at Demetrios' level. Goran is too stupid to realize he is being used and abused by the Ioannides clan. One might say the relationship is mutually abusive.
2) Goran is typical of the culture at Meritservus. He would find it extremely difficult to acquire work outside of Meritservus.
3) Goran lacks critical thinking skills. He also lacks communication skills in the workplace.
4) Goran survives at meritservus by retaining control over his little kingdom - a stuffy, 15 by 10 foot computer 'control' room in a third rate building next door to the second rate building (Eftapaton court) of Meritservus. Goran and his assistant keep the door locked and will refuse to see anyone without an appointment. Who knows what idle hands find to do behind the closed door? I might surmise he surfs porn sites, spies on Meritservus employees and on occasion restricts employees' network rights to reassert his authority. Aside from this, he is probably idle. Goran's thoughts are completely transparent - all one has to see is how he projects his thoughts onto others. He is from a fourth rate country (Serbia), in a fifth rate part of the world. Why, his village may not even have running water...
5) Goran was the one who requested help from the clan in the form of an extra developer. Actually, there was no need to hire any new person since Goran's real intention was to expand his kingdom. Goran and Demetrios are obsessive about control. At times I wondered which of the two was really in control. For example, during an early meeting in Demetrios' office, Demetrios went to extraordinary lengths to praise and appease Goran who uttered vile threats against me (day 2!).
Pesic is the primary reason I am no longer at Meritservus. He got his way, but only because I did not care to continue at meritservus.

As for my outstanding wages - these are still not forthcoming. Expect to see regular updates.

Once again, be warned: do not believe a word of what the Ioannides clan tell you in order to lure you to work at the merit group of companies. You will not only forego wages, but you will experience much undue stress, unpleasantness and suffering. The memory is not easy to forget. Although I am almost over it, I am still smarting on occasion.
On the other hand, if you are from a similar background to Goran, that is, a poor country with poor prospects, you may be tempted. Ask for 3 months pay in advance, a sign-on bonus, a substantial relocation package. Have the contract state that your wages are paid in advance on the first of each month. Don't say to anyone you were not warned! Young graduates are especially susceptible - you must realize you will be dealing with reptiles.

I am in a real quandary trying to figure out who posted this rebuttal...

Let me see: My mysterious admirer cannot be Reptella - she prefers women and even if she didn't, I somehow doubt that I would qualify as her type.

Could it be Panos? Nah, he is a straight boy - just can't see him admiring another man. Could it be Demetrios? Nah, I probably would not be his type either.

Could it be Goran? Nah, he just doesn't have the brains to write in such good grammar, and if I were gay, heck, I think I would probably go straight. Oh, what was I thinking, a dimwit like Goran would never admire someone as handsome and intelligent as I...

Tsk, tsk, I will just have to remain in suspense until my secret admirer reveals more.

dear john

I have followed your complaints very thoroughly and truly sympathize with you. How dare the the Reptile clan?? How could they.. Poor you ...

However, it is an opportunity for me to contact you and express my feelings for you... I had my eyes on you the minute you took a position with MS. You are a very exotic blend of Cypriot/American which makes you so attractive. Then.. you disappeared from my life shortly after you entered. I had no way to contact you, until this report came up in some google searches i was performing for the company. Life had meaning for me again but being shy by nature, it took a while for me to have the courage to contact you...

So let us embark on the opportunity to embrace one another in spirit and explore the chance that we may one day be with one another. I am not ready to reveal my identity but perhaps we can get to know each other. our likes and dislikes through this very innovative and revolutionary portal, 'rip off report'. What a fantastic way to get back at companies and their bad business dealings by the way. And how clever of you to have thought of this means to express your discontent and your spite towards the reptiles. I can not but express my admiration towards you. Your high IQ and excellence in your field is portrayed through sharp actions such as these.

BRAVO JOHN! BRAVO!!! or 'sigxaritiria' as we would say in your native language. By the way would you have pictures of your beautiful mother you can post on this site?? I can't wait to see if your good looks take after your Greek or American side.

A tender hug and a tender kiss from Kypros, the island of love :-X

Although I wish that I could erase this unpleasant experience from my memory, I know that ultimately it is a life lesson learned.

My very first summer job (I was still at school) was at a bakery in Africa. This bakery was managed by a Cypriot who was an acquaintance of my late parents. I worked for almost three weeks and when payday arrived, learned he had pocketed my wages. To cut to the chase, as the saying goes, I swore off working for Cypriots in general - until 32 years later when I decided to work for Meritservus/Meritkapital.

The Cypriots are purported to be descendants of the Kittim. This is a Hebrew word that was originally intended to refer to the Greeks, but later used to refer to anyone from Larnaca, Cyprus. Cypriots today can hardly be called the descendants of true Greeks, for indeed they are not. Suffice to say, there are many Greeks who have emigrated to Cyprus in the last few decades.

I do not wish to generalize as I am past such thinking processes that are in fact moronic and a symptom of a feeble mind. To wit, I still have some good Cypriot friends (not native Cypriots).

One thing is for certain now: Meritservus now has two records with the department of labour in Cyprus. They have had issues with two employees who were treated in an identical way: they withheld wages from both employees. It is not going to be that easy for the organization to abuse its employees again, even though I am certain this will not stop them from trying.

Reptella (Persella) Ioannides and her father Demetrios Ioannides are fine examples of human reptiles. Demetrios, like all other Cypriots has a corner reserved in his office where his idols reside ('mother and son' icons depicting Mary and Christ, etc). This ofcourse, is only for show. I think you can decide how sincere he really is.

Reptella on the other hand, appears not to care about religion. She is brazenly defiant. I could almost swear she hates men?

I will post more details of my ruminations regarding the Ioannides clan as and when I am able. Why is this important? Well, again, I want to warn all who deal with this organization and its affiliates - this is the type of culture you can expect to find. Needless to say, you would be a fool not to demand your wages upfront. Make certain your contract states that wages are payable at the beginning of each month or pay period. Contracts mean nothing at Meritservus/Meritkapital.

It has been almost 8 weeks since I returned from Cyprus and Meritservus has not paid wages owed to me.

Meritservus is hoping that further action on my part will fizzle out but I am keeping a vigilant watch to warn all unsuspecting victims.

Let me advise you that it is unwise to enter into any form of agreement with Meritservus because this is a powerful family run organization that has no respect for the law or contracts. An employment contract means nothing as I have proved in past posts.

Reptella Ioanides and her autocratic father continue to disregard their contractual obligations. Their last communication was through the Cyprus department of labour (dol). The communication came in the form of a quid-pro-quo offer: remove these true reports and they would be 'willing' to pay my wages. Can you believe the audacity?! They are contractually obligated to pay me wages. Who cares if they are willing or not? Evidently they are not willing.

I had the following thoughts in retrospect: It is my belief that Meritservus are not entirely happy with their Network Administrator - Goran Pesic. Or at least Reptella and her brother may be conspiring to replace him, whilst their autocratic father is able to communicate with Pesic, the insecure individual that he (Pesic) is. Since daddy has the final word, there may be an ongoing power-struggle in Meritservus-land. This is a kind of 'Survivor' scenario to see who will end up running the heap.

Keep checking back for more Meritservus-land episodes. Also be sure to read everything Merit-DIS-servus on Ripoff report. Pass this information on and warn all your friends to avoid this organization.

I found this interesting link on Meritservus:
(((Redacted)))

The link describes a visit by the Cypriot President to Moscow. Note that Demetris Ioannides is one of the VIPs accompanying the President to Russia.

Some more facts:

D. Ioannides co-authored Cyprus's tax code with Prof. Gassner - a lecturer from Germany.

There has been and continues to be a large influx of investment from Russia to Cyprus. Given the recent land-based scandals in Cyprus, one can only wonder what else might be brewing. Far be it from me to imply Meritservus is involved in any of this - I have no evidence, but would welcome any information on financial transactions besides the Roman Arkadovich-Meritservus association. Leave a means of contact, i.e. email or website.

CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.

Today I receive a letter email from the department of labour in Cyprus. The contents thereof follow. Commentary in square brackets.

From: John
To: kpanayiotou@dlr.mlsi.gov.cy

Dear Mrs. Panayiotou,

1) I would not remove the reports under any circumstances. However, even if I wanted to, I would not be allowed to so. RipOffReport never removes reports from their database.

2) I do not negotiate with Meritservus - Persella Ioannides destroyed my trust and good faith when she breached our contract by refusing to pay me.

3) The reports, unless updated to the effect that Meritservus settled by paying my wages (at the very least) and the expenses incurred by me in Cyprus, will have lasting and significant damage to the organization and its affiliates.

I will continue to publish more reports and cast whatever doubt I can on this vile and filthy organization. The last organization that refused to pay me ten years ago went out of business in only one year.

Kleri, I am infuriated and justly so. Meritservus not only ripped me off, but also an employee they hired immediately after me. Meritservus will never hire another good employee if I can help it. Nobody deserves to be treated like this. What gives Meritservus the right to summarily disregard a contract? Are they better than me?...

As for my wages, I do not believe these will be forthcoming. In fact, as I mentioned to you in person, Meritservus never had any intention of paying me wages. My purpose in continuing to publish reports is twofold: i) Vengeance and ii) A warning to more prospective victims hired under false pretences.

Unfortunately there are some decent people at Meritservus who will be affected by this. All I can say to them is they should consider searching for alternative employment.

Sincerely
John

From: kpanayiotou@dlr.mlsi.gov.cy
To: John

Dear John

I would like to inform you that Meritservus is willing [Really?! Heh, heh] to pay your monthly salary under one condition. [Tsk, tsk - Meritservus are in no position to make demands or set conditions] The company demands that you immediately proceed to remove the website you set up with adverse comments [adverse?! far be it from me to publish anything but the TRUTH! When one acts and does the right things in life, one has incredible courage.] against Meritservus Ltd.

Thanking you.
Kleri

Prospective Employees of Meritservus BEWARE! I and someone hired immediately after me were RIPPED OFF.

Here is the original contract between Meritservus and myself:


Contract of Employment Between: Meritservus Secretaries Ltd And Employee Meritservus Secretaries Ltd Eftapaton Court 256 Makarios Avenue, Mail: P.O. Box 53180 CY3105, Limassol, Cyprus Telephone: +357 25 85 77 00 Fax: +357 25 35 60 10 e-mail: info@meritservus.com #THIS AGREEMENT is made the _____ day of _________ BETWEEN : (1) Meritservus Secretaries Limited whose Registered Office is at 3 Chrysanthou Mylona Street, CY3030, Limassol, Cyprus Company Registration Number 117755 (the Employer'); and (2) Employee of ___[address]_________ (the Employee') NOW IT IS AGREED as follows: Interpretation In this Agreement: 1.1 unless the context otherwise requires words importing one gender include all other genders and words importing the singular include the plural and vice versa; 1.2 any reference to a statutory provision shall be deemed to include a reference to any statutory modification or re-enactment of it; 1.3 the clause headings do not form part of this Agreement and shall not be taken into account in its construction or interpretation; and 1.4 references in this Agreement to any clause, sub-clause, schedule or paragraph without further designation shall be construed as references to the clause, sub-clause, schedule or paragraph of this Agreement so numbered. 2 Commencement Date The Employee is to commence employment with the Employer on the date of _____ _______ 2009 and execution of this agreement shall be the date of commencement of the Employee's continuous employment. 3 Job title 3.1 The Employer shall employ the Employee in the capacity of IT Programmer at the Limassol office of Meritservus Secretaries based at 256 Arch Makarios III Avenue, CY3105 Limassol, Cyprus. 3.2 In addition to the duties which this job normally entails the Employee may from time to time be required to undertake additional or other duties as necessary to meet the needs of the Employer's business. 4 Place of work The Employee's normal place of work shall be the Limassol office of Meritservus Secretaries based at 256 Arch Makarios III Avenue, CY3105 Limassol, Cyprus but the Employee shall work in any place within the Republic of Cyprus which the Employer may require for the proper performance and exercise of his duties. 5 Accommodation The Employee shall benefit from free accommodation in a 2 bedroom furnished apartment in Limassol (the Accommodation) for the first 6 months of his employment. For the subsequent 6 months the rent will be 450 per month for the same apartment. Upon leaving the flat, the Employee will leave the Accommodation clean and free of any damage (fair wear and tear excepted). The Employer is entitled to deduct the cost of any necessary repairs to damage caused by the Employee to the Accommodation or any of the fixtures and fittings and furniture contained therein from the Employee's salary. If employment of the Employee with the Employer ends for any reason during the first 12 months of employment, the Employee will vacate the flat within 2 weeks of ceasing of employment. Relocation Expenses The employee shall be reimbursed for the economy class, air fare expenses incurred in relocating from his current, US residence to the place of work. The reimbursement will be provided on the 1st day of work by the employer. 7 Remuneration 7.1 The Employer shall henceforth pay the Employee at the gross rate of 2500 per month in arrears on the last day of each calendar month (the Salary'). 7.2 The gross Salary is made up of the Employee's basic salary added to the Cost of Living Allowance as recommended by the Ministry of Finance. The Employer will increase the Salary by the increase in the Cost of Living Allowance in line with the periodic recommendations made by the Ministry of Finance made every six months. 7.3 The net salary will be paid by bank transfer on the last day of each calendar month. 7.4 If the Employee's employment commences part way through the month, his Salary for the first month will be assessed on a pro rata basis according to the number of days he has worked that month. 7.5 The Employer will pay to the Employee a 13th salary in December of every year. 7.6 If the Employee's employment commences part way through the year his 13th Salary payment will be calculated proportionately to the number of days he has worked in the first year. 7.7 The Employee's reasonable travel expenses additionally incurred as a result of carrying out his duties will be paid for by the Employer, upon obtaining the prior approval of the travel by the Employer and upon production of receipts evidencing the cost of travel, at the standard rates applicable at the time of travel. Provided that this clause will under no circumstances will this clause be interpreted to include the cost of travelling to and from work every day, which shall be solely the responsibility of the Employee. 7.8 You will be eligible to enter the Firm's Medical and Life Insurance Scheme after 6 months of continuous employment. The Firm will cover 50% of the cost of the Medical Scheme. Additionally, you are free to insure either all or part of your family, at your own cost. The Firm will cover 100% of the Life Insurance. 8 Appraisals The Employer will review the Employee's performance after 6 months of the employment and then every twelve months thereafter. 9 Hours of employment 9.1 The Employee's normal hours of employment shall be 38.5 hours per week. The office hours are from 8.00 am to 5.30 pm every week day during which one and a half hours may be taken for lunch between 1.00 pm and 2.30pm although this may vary depending on the Employee's work commitments. 9.2 The Employee may be required to work such hours outside normal hours of employment as the Employer considers necessary to meet the needs of the business. The Employee shall be paid for such further hours at a rate of 15.00 per hour. 10 Holidays 10.1 The Employee is entitled in addition to the normal public holidays to take 20 working days as holidays in each holiday year which runs from 1 January to 1 January of each year and the Employee will be paid his normal basic remuneration during such holidays. 10.2 If the Employee's employment commences or terminates part way through the holiday year his entitlement to holidays during that year will be assessed on a pro rata basis and deductions from final Salary due to the Employee on termination of employment will be made in respect of holidays taken in excess of entitlement. 10.3 Holidays must be taken at times convenient to the Employer and sufficient notice of intention to take holiday must be given to the Employee's Manager. 10.4 Up to ten days holiday entitlement unused at the end of the holiday year may be carried over into the next holiday year provided that the authorisation of the Employee's Manager is granted. 10.5 At the discretion of the Employer, the Employee will be entitled to be paid in respect of holidays accrued due but untaken as at the date of termination of employment. 11 Sickness 11.1 In the event of absence on account of sickness or injury the Employee (or someone on his behalf) must inform the Employer of the reason for the Employee's absence as soon as possible and must do so no later than 8.30am on the day on which absence first occurs. 11.2 In respect of absence lasting 3 or fewer calendar days the Employee is not required to produce a medical certificate unless specifically so requested by the Employer but must complete the Employer's self-certification form on return to work from such absence. 11.3 In respect of absence lasting more than 3 calendar days the Employee must on the fourth calendar day of absence provide the Employer with a medical certificate stating the reason for absence and thereafter provide a like certificate each week to cover any subsequent period of absence. The Employer reserves the right to ask the Employee at any stage of absence to produce a medical certificate and/or to undergo a medical examination. 11.4 The Employee will be paid his normal basic remuneration (less the amount of any or social security sickness benefit to which he may be entitled) for such period or periods of absence from work as the Employer shall see fit at the Employer's discretion. Entitlement to payment is subject to notification of absence and production of medical certificates in accordance with clauses 9.1 to 9.3 above. 11.5 The Employer operates the sick pay scheme alongside the Social Insurance Authority and the Employee is required to co-operate in the maintenance of necessary records. 12 Provident Fund The Employee will on completion of six months' employment join the Employer's provident fund, details of which can be obtained from the Employer, subject always to the scheme's rules from time to time in force. 13 Termination of employment The employment of the Employee may be terminated: 13.1 by the Employee on giving the Employer written notice as follows: 13.1.1 during the first 26 week probationary period of continuous employment 1 week notice is required; and 13.1.2 (if probationary period is completed) up to 27th to the 155th week not less than 4 weeks notice; 13.1.3 during the 156th week to the 207thweek not less than five weeks notice; 13.1.4 during the 208th to the 259th week not less than six weeks notice; 13.1.5 during the 260th to the 311th week not less than seven weeks notice; and 13.1.6 from the 312th week of employment and subsequently eight week notice. 13.2 by the Employer on giving to the Employee written notice as follows: 13.2.1 during the first 26 week probationary period of continuous employment 1 week notice is required 13.2.2 (if probationary period is completed) up to 27th to the 155th week not less than 4 weeks notice; 13.2.3 during the 156th week to the 207thweek not less than five weeks notice; 13.2.4 during the 208th to the 259th week not less than six weeks notice; 13.2.5 during the 260th to the 311th week not less than seven weeks notice; and 13.2.6 from the 312th week of employment and subsequently eight week notice. 13.3 where notice is given to the Employee in accordance with Clause 11.2 above, the Employer reserves the right to request the Employee to leave the premises immediately and accept payment in lieu of notice. 13.4 by the Employer without notice or payment in lieu of notice in the event of serious or persistent misconduct by the Employee. 13.5 by the Employer for any reason which gives the Employer the right to terminate this contract without notice under the provisions of the Termination of Employment Law 24/67. 14 Confidentiality The Employee shall not at any time during his employment (except so far as is necessary and proper in the course of his employment) or at any time after his employment has terminated disclose to any person any confidential information of Meritservus Secretaries or its affiliated Companies or their clients. Breach of this clause during employment shall constitute a serious misconduct and may lead to summary dismissal. 15 Restrictive covenants The Employee undertakes and covenants with the Employer that: 15.1 for the period of 3 months immediately following the termination of the Employee's employment howsoever terminated the Employee shall not (without the previous consent in writing of the Employer and whether on the Employee's own account or for any other person, firm, company or organisation) endeavour to entice away from the Employer any employee with whom the Employee has, during the course of the Employee's employment, worked, or had personal dealings at any time within the 12 month period immediately preceding the termination of the Employee's employment (hereafter referred to as the Contact Period'); and 15.2 for the period of 6 months immediately following the termination of the Employee's employment, the Employee shall not (without the previous consent in writing of the Employer and whether on the Employee's own account or for any other person, firm, company or organisation) negotiate with, solicit business from, or endeavour to entice away from the Employer any person, firm, company or organisation who or which is and has been in the Contact Period a customer of the Employer, in the habit of dealing with the Employer or in respect of which the Employer has formally tendered for work and with whom or which the Employee had, during the course of his employment, direct dealings or personal contact during the Contact Period, so as to harm the goodwill of, or so as to compete with, the Employer. 16 Grievance procedures 16.1 If the Employee has any grievance relating to his employment, he should apply in writing to the Human Resources Personnel. The grievance procedure in relation to the Employee's employment is set out in the Staff Manual. 16.2 The disciplinary policy applicable to the Employee's employment is set out in the Staff Manual. If the Employee is dissatisfied with any disciplinary decision relating to him, he should apply in writing to the Human Resources Personnel. 17 Conflict of Interest 17.1 The Employee will not place himself in a position in which his interest conflict with that of the Employer. 17.2 The Employee will declare the ownership of any shares or interests in any business in competition with the Employer, which, are held by the Employee or the Employee's spouse or children under the age of 18.This may include, but is not limited to family business relationships with contractors, consultants or suppliers of the Employer, private work, membership of voluntary organisations and statutory bodies etc. The Employee will take such steps as may be notified to him by the Employer to ensure that there is no conflict of interest. 17.3 The Employee will not during this employment work for any other organisation without the written consent of the Managing Director of the Employer. Such consent will not be unreasonably withheld. 17.4 The Employee shall not offer to any third party or accept from a third party any benefit whether financial or in kind. 18 Intellectual Property 18.1 Any patent or design rights arising from work of the Employee is employed to undertake for the Employer or is expected to arise from such work, shall belong to the Employer. 18.2 The copyright in any material relating to or arising from this employment rests with the Employer. 19 Prior Agreements This Agreement sets out the entire Agreement and understanding of the parties and is in substitution of any previous written or oral agreements between the Employer and the Employee. 20 Partnership Nothing in this Agreement shall be taken as forming a partnership between the Employee and the Employer. 21 Jurisdiction This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Cyprus and shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Cypriot courts. Signed on behalf of Meritservus Secretaries Ltd Employee John Houston, Texas
U.S.A.

What follows is a recent email from Meritservus and a response by me. See my commentary in square brackets.

Panos,
'Good faith'? You should not use this phrase, because you don't know what it means.
Regarding the reports - these will never be removed. I am however, prepared to publish an update as communicated to your lawyer, to the effect that my salary(for 17 days) was paid only after it is deposited into my US bank account (Account no: ..... Routing no: .....).
When this happens, I shall forget the other monies.
John

--- On Tue, 3/24/09, Panos Ioannides wrote:

From: Panos Ioannides
Subject: Your salary
To: John
Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2009, 2:19 AM


John hi
In good faith, we are willing to pay you your due wages once you remove all materials from the web and cease any future publications. [Have you ever read about the 'Law of the Medes and Persians, which alters not.'? I am sure you have. Not even God can remove those reports. This will make you think twice in future about breaking a contract and ripping off any of your labourers. What is it my beloved late mother (who was Greek and the most beautiful woman who ever lived both in looks and soul) would tell me in Greek? Kita ton doulefti sou, kai kalo min kaneis. (Take care of your employee and forget about charity for those who don't speak Greek). All of a sudden, Meritservus are 'willing' to pay my due wages. Hmmm, what a turn-around.] The extra money that you are asking I believe is unfounded as it not binding by any agreement between Meritservus and yourself. [Oh, so now Meritservus actually abides by legal contracts?!!!]
John I urge you to take this and move on. Otherwise, my father is determined to enter legal proceedings against you which can harm your career and life at the end of the day. [Your father can take a flying leap for all I care.]
Regards,
Panos

I received the following threatening letter from Meritservus's lawyer. My comments are in square brackets, i.e. []

Dear Mr. John

We are the attorneys for Meritservus Secretaries Ltd.

It is our understanding that you have issued and published various statements and comments over the internet, specifically at www.ripoffreport.com, concerning our client's business and its various officers and employees.

In recent comments posted on that website, you make specific allegations concerning Ms. Persella Ioannides, among other individuals, which characterize Ms. Ioannides as a disingenuous businesswoman. You also falsely attack her reputation, business acumen and integrity. The allegations made against Ms. Ioannides, as well as the other professionals working with our client, are not true, but they are in our opinion defamatory.
[All the statements are TRUE. Let's see:
1)Regarding disingenuity: Contractually Persella 'Reptilla' Ioannides is bound to pay me for days worked at Meritservus. When she does NOT pay me, what does that make her?
2)Regarding reputation: Indeed, Persella and her accomplices are dishonest and liars to boot. When someone promises to abide by a contract and fails to do so, that person is DISHONEST and a LIAR.
3)Acumen:Persella asked me on several occasions if I think she is a
'fool'. I never responded directly to this accusation. However, Persella does not understand technology as well as I do. She is not a software developer and does not know enough to converse with a technical person on his/her level. What is more astounding however, is her obstinate and arrogant approach when confronted by logic and dismissing the same in sheer ignorance. If Persella owned a sick horse, she would probably beat it with a whip thinking it would have to eventually carry out her wishes. So, as far as her investment/business acumen goes, I will not comment on this seeing it is not my field of expertise. I can however say she has very little acumen in technical matters.
]

Moreover, the title of one of your posts on that site alone, "Meritservus deceptive autocratic reptiles liars unlawful," is defamatory as well.

For your clarification, statements that are made publicly and which falsely attack the basic integriry or reputation of a business, businessperson or professional, are presumed under law to be defamatory and any injury stemming from such defamatory statements are also presumed.
[Just as well that my comments are true eh?! Furthermore, the poor victim employed immediately after me suffered a similar fate. I rest my case your Honor! Ha, ha. ]

Therefore, your various statements are actionable and would entitle our client to recover compensatory and punitive damages against you.
[Tsk, tsk, I am trembling to the bone. If Meritservus had a chance against me, they would have already filed a lawsuit. Hmmm, talk about 'reptile'? What does one call this sly and devious behaviour? ]

We therefore request that you cease and desist from making or publishing any further statements or comments regarding our client, its various officers and employees, which are false and defamatory. Failure to do so will result in the commencement of legal proceedings against you. [Ha, ha, ha. The person who suffered defamation is I. ALL the comments I made regarding people at Meritservus/Meritkapital are TRUE.]

Bla, bla, bla.....

Peter Moulinos

===========================================
My response to Peter follows. Note that had Persella abided by the contract, all Meritservus would have paid was my wages. I would not have published anything in this regard.
==========================================

www.moulinos.com

Mr. Peter Moulinos,

Your Fedex letter of March 18, 2009 refers.

I cannot retract any statements regarding Ms. Persella Ioannides or anything else I stated about Meritservus. Everything regarding her character, acumen and integrity is true. Moreover, Ms. Ioannides acted unlawfully and unethically by refusing to pay due wages and defaming my character.

Regarding your request to cease making any further statements, allow me to inform you I shall persist in publishing any and all information deemed appropriate and necessary. Just recently, another employee who left your client, confirmed my statements. See updated ripoff report and rebuttals.

Your client owes me money for unpaid wages. Your client also owes me compensation for defamation and undue stress caused at and away from work. Add to this additional expenses ($300) incurred to return home and the cost of supporting myself whilst in Cyprus ($1000).

Now if your client is prepared to settle outstanding debts ($300+$1000+due wages) and apologize in writing/email for the treatment I endured, I will update my reports to this effect and make no further publications. Take note however, that I will not agree to publish anything that might falsely portray your client in a favourable light for any reason whatsoever.

John

I received the following threatening letter from Meritservus's lawyer. My comments are in square brackets, i.e. []

Dear Mr. John

We are the attorneys for Meritservus Secretaries Ltd.

It is our understanding that you have issued and published various statements and comments over the internet, specifically at www.ripoffreport.com, concerning our client's business and its various officers and employees.

In recent comments posted on that website, you make specific allegations concerning Ms. Persella Ioannides, among other individuals, which characterize Ms. Ioannides as a disingenuous businesswoman. You also falsely attack her reputation, business acumen and integrity. The allegations made against Ms. Ioannides, as well as the other professionals working with our client, are not true, but they are in our opinion defamatory.
[All the statements are TRUE. Let's see:
1)Regarding disingenuity: Contractually Persella 'Reptilla' Ioannides is bound to pay me for days worked at Meritservus. When she does NOT pay me, what does that make her?
2)Regarding reputation: Indeed, Persella and her accomplices are dishonest and liars to boot. When someone promises to abide by a contract and fails to do so, that person is DISHONEST and a LIAR.
3)Acumen:Persella asked me on several occasions if I think she is a
'fool'. I never responded directly to this accusation. However, Persella does not understand technology as well as I do. She is not a software developer and does not know enough to converse with a technical person on his/her level. What is more astounding however, is her obstinate and arrogant approach when confronted by logic and dismissing the same in sheer ignorance. If Persella owned a sick horse, she would probably beat it with a whip thinking it would have to eventually carry out her wishes. So, as far as her investment/business acumen goes, I will not comment on this seeing it is not my field of expertise. I can however say she has very little acumen in technical matters.
]

Moreover, the title of one of your posts on that site alone, "Meritservus deceptive autocratic reptiles liars unlawful," is defamatory as well.

For your clarification, statements that are made publicly and which falsely attack the basic integriry or reputation of a business, businessperson or professional, are presumed under law to be defamatory and any injury stemming from such defamatory statements are also presumed.
[Just as well that my comments are true eh?! Furthermore, the poor victim employed immediately after me suffered a similar fate. I rest my case your Honor! Ha, ha. ]

Therefore, your various statements are actionable and would entitle our client to recover compensatory and punitive damages against you.
[Tsk, tsk, I am trembling to the bone. If Meritservus had a chance against me, they would have already filed a lawsuit. Hmmm, talk about 'reptile'? What does one call this sly and devious behaviour? ]

We therefore request that you cease and desist from making or publishing any further statements or comments regarding our client, its various officers and employees, which are false and defamatory. Failure to do so will result in the commencement of legal proceedings against you. [Ha, ha, ha. The person who suffered defamation is I. ALL the comments I made regarding people at Meritservus/Meritkapital are TRUE.]

Bla, bla, bla.....

Peter Moulinos

===========================================
My response to Peter follows. Note that had Persella abided by the contract, all Meritservus would have paid was my wages. I would not have published anything in this regard.
==========================================

www.moulinos.com

Mr. Peter Moulinos,

Your Fedex letter of March 18, 2009 refers.

I cannot retract any statements regarding Ms. Persella Ioannides or anything else I stated about Meritservus. Everything regarding her character, acumen and integrity is true. Moreover, Ms. Ioannides acted unlawfully and unethically by refusing to pay due wages and defaming my character.

Regarding your request to cease making any further statements, allow me to inform you I shall persist in publishing any and all information deemed appropriate and necessary. Just recently, another employee who left your client, confirmed my statements. See updated ripoff report and rebuttals.

Your client owes me money for unpaid wages. Your client also owes me compensation for defamation and undue stress caused at and away from work. Add to this additional expenses ($300) incurred to return home and the cost of supporting myself whilst in Cyprus ($1000).

Now if your client is prepared to settle outstanding debts ($300+$1000+due wages) and apologize in writing/email for the treatment I endured, I will update my reports to this effect and make no further publications. Take note however, that I will not agree to publish anything that might falsely portray your client in a favourable light for any reason whatsoever.

John

This vile and unethical organization has denied my rightful remuneration. I will continue to search and expose whatever I can to warn anyone from becoming involved either as an employee or an investor.

I refer to the following courtcase(Judgement was passed in a high court of London on 29/10/2008):

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token

This was a lawsuit filed against one of the world's richest men - Roman Arkadievich Abramovich (number 15 on the rich scale I am led to believe).

Take a look at page 91 of the report:

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token=null&offset=1080&page=91

I quote from the actual trial:

"By 1st January 2002 the ownership of Gemini and Ferenco had been transferred to Finservus (Trustees) Ltd, another Cypriot company. (Its shares were originally owned by Deloittes but then transferred to Demetris Ioannidis, who is a director of Meritservus Ltd and other Meritservus companies and head of the Meritservus organisation in Cyprus). The implication must be that Finservus is a vehicle for Mr Abramovich's personal interests."

Now although this does not imply Meritservus acted knowingly as vehicles for Abramovich's interests, is it mere coincidence? If this is true, then one might wonder about how many other wealthy organizations may be using Meritservus in the same way as Abramovich...

I have yet to receive my pay for 17 days of work at Meritservus. This will not deter me from digging up more information that might be useful as a warning to some other poor soul. If I can save but one person from suffering the same fate as I did at Meritservus, then I have succeeded.

Keep watching this story as it unfolds on RipOff Report in the weeks ahead.

This vile and unethical organization has denied my rightful remuneration. I will continue to search and expose whatever I can to warn anyone from becoming involved either as an employee or an investor.

I refer to the following courtcase(Judgement was passed in a high court of London on 29/10/2008):

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token

This was a lawsuit filed against one of the world's richest men - Roman Arkadievich Abramovich (number 15 on the rich scale I am led to believe).

Take a look at page 91 of the report:

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token=null&offset=1080&page=91

I quote from the actual trial:

"By 1st January 2002 the ownership of Gemini and Ferenco had been transferred to Finservus (Trustees) Ltd, another Cypriot company. (Its shares were originally owned by Deloittes but then transferred to Demetris Ioannidis, who is a director of Meritservus Ltd and other Meritservus companies and head of the Meritservus organisation in Cyprus). The implication must be that Finservus is a vehicle for Mr Abramovich's personal interests."

Now although this does not imply Meritservus acted knowingly as vehicles for Abramovich's interests, is it mere coincidence? If this is true, then one might wonder about how many other wealthy organizations may be using Meritservus in the same way as Abramovich...

I have yet to receive my pay for 17 days of work at Meritservus. This will not deter me from digging up more information that might be useful as a warning to some other poor soul. If I can save but one person from suffering the same fate as I did at Meritservus, then I have succeeded.

Keep watching this story as it unfolds on RipOff Report in the weeks ahead.

This vile and unethical organization has denied my rightful remuneration. I will continue to search and expose whatever I can to warn anyone from becoming involved either as an employee or an investor.

I refer to the following courtcase(Judgement was passed in a high court of London on 29/10/2008):

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token

This was a lawsuit filed against one of the world's richest men - Roman Arkadievich Abramovich (number 15 on the rich scale I am led to believe).

Take a look at page 91 of the report:

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token=null&offset=1080&page=91

I quote from the actual trial:

"By 1st January 2002 the ownership of Gemini and Ferenco had been transferred to Finservus (Trustees) Ltd, another Cypriot company. (Its shares were originally owned by Deloittes but then transferred to Demetris Ioannidis, who is a director of Meritservus Ltd and other Meritservus companies and head of the Meritservus organisation in Cyprus). The implication must be that Finservus is a vehicle for Mr Abramovich's personal interests."

Now although this does not imply Meritservus acted knowingly as vehicles for Abramovich's interests, is it mere coincidence? If this is true, then one might wonder about how many other wealthy organizations may be using Meritservus in the same way as Abramovich...

I have yet to receive my pay for 17 days of work at Meritservus. This will not deter me from digging up more information that might be useful as a warning to some other poor soul. If I can save but one person from suffering the same fate as I did at Meritservus, then I have succeeded.

Keep watching this story as it unfolds on RipOff Report in the weeks ahead.

This vile and unethical organization has denied my rightful remuneration. I will continue to search and expose whatever I can to warn anyone from becoming involved either as an employee or an investor.

I refer to the following courtcase(Judgement was passed in a high court of London on 29/10/2008):

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token

This was a lawsuit filed against one of the world's richest men - Roman Arkadievich Abramovich (number 15 on the rich scale I am led to believe).

Take a look at page 91 of the report:

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article5046499.ece?token=null&offset=1080&page=91

I quote from the actual trial:

"By 1st January 2002 the ownership of Gemini and Ferenco had been transferred to Finservus (Trustees) Ltd, another Cypriot company. (Its shares were originally owned by Deloittes but then transferred to Demetris Ioannidis, who is a director of Meritservus Ltd and other Meritservus companies and head of the Meritservus organisation in Cyprus). The implication must be that Finservus is a vehicle for Mr Abramovich's personal interests."

Now although this does not imply Meritservus acted knowingly as vehicles for Abramovich's interests, is it mere coincidence? If this is true, then one might wonder about how many other wealthy organizations may be using Meritservus in the same way as Abramovich...

I have yet to receive my pay for 17 days of work at Meritservus. This will not deter me from digging up more information that might be useful as a warning to some other poor soul. If I can save but one person from suffering the same fate as I did at Meritservus, then I have succeeded.

Keep watching this story as it unfolds on RipOff Report in the weeks ahead.