Nicosia, Cyprus. Akel said on Friday that longstanding neglect has left the Athalassa psychiatric hospital unsafe for patients and staff and called for immediate action to improve conditions at the facility.
Akel describes conditions as dangerous
Akel said the situation at the Athalassa psychiatric hospital is “shameful and dangerous,” adding that the state has for years been aware the hospital is “effectively collapsing.” The party cited outdated and unsafe buildings, widespread deterioration and serious overcrowding, saying these conditions create hazards for those receiving care and those working at the hospital.
Nurses and unions raise repeated warnings
The party said nurses have long reported above-capacity wards, unsafe infrastructure and gaps in care. It added that trade unions Pasyno and Pasyki have also warned that structurally unsound buildings endanger patients and staff.
Calls for accountability and construction work
Akel said there must be accountability for delays, omissions and decisions that led to the current situation. The party called on the government to move immediately to concrete measures, including launching and completing the second phase of construction of new buildings at Athalassa.
Continuity of care and parliamentary referral
Akel said solutions must be implemented without delay to ensure safe, dignified and appropriate hospital facilities. It said no treatment should be disrupted and no patient relocated without full guarantees of continuity of care.
Akel said the state does not treat mental health as a priority and added that mental health must be treated as an issue of justice, dignity and public responsibility. The party said it has requested the matter be referred to the competent parliamentary committee, adding that the dignity of people with mental illness and the safety of workers are non-negotiable.
What steps do you think should be taken first to improve safety and care at Athalassa psychiatric hospital?