President Nikos Christodoulides has announced over €60 million in new health spending aimed at enhancing critical infrastructure across Cyprus.
- President Nikos Christodoulides has announced over €60 million in new health spending aimed at enhancing critical infrastructure across Cyprus.
The funding will support the second and third phases of the Athalassa psychiatric hospital, along with the establishment of a new infectious diseases unit at Nicosia general hospital. Additional upgrades will be made to the intensive care unit and pathology department at Larnaca general hospital, as well as significant maintenance works at Troodos hospital.
In total, these projects will require €61.7 million, contributing to a substantial €206.7 million spent on health infrastructure since Christodoulides took office. This latest announcement reflects a continued commitment to improving healthcare services in the region.
As part of the government’s long-term vision, Christodoulides also referred to plans for a new hospital in Polis Chrysochous. The government issued a decision regarding land expropriation in March, paving the way for this important project. In January, timetables for the hospital’s construction were established during a meeting with local representatives and MPs from the Paphos district.
The foundation stone for the new hospital is scheduled to be laid in February 2024, with an expected completion date by the end of 2028. The construction is anticipated to cost around €17 million, which is part of the broader €128 million allocated for health infrastructure improvements planned for 2024.
While the funding is welcomed, concerns have been raised regarding delays in the upgrades at Athalassa. Trade unions have expressed frustration, stating that these delays “undermine mental healthcare in our country.” The union, Pasydy, emphasised the necessity of a new psychiatric hospital, noting that it is a critical element in addressing the increasing demands on mental health services exacerbated by the pandemic and ongoing social changes.
Pasydy highlighted that the completion of Athalassa’s second construction phase is vital for ensuring quality mental health services. The omission of this project from initial plans raised questions about the government’s dedication to mental health, with the union stating, “Investment in this sector is an investment in social cohesion, the wellbeing of ordinary people, and the reduction of social costs.”
As part of the upgrades, the first phase of construction at Athalassa was completed in October 2023, costing just over €10 million. This phase introduced modern facilities designed to aid in the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals facing mental health challenges, all while respecting their dignity and rights.
