Refrigeration breakdown raises serious concerns
The refrigeration units at the morgue of the Paphos General Hospital have been out of operation for several days, causing serious difficulties in the preservation of bodies.
According to a written statement by Acting Mayor of Paphos Angelos Onisiforou, the situation is creating operational strain and distress for families and funeral services.
Concerns over public health and dignity
Onisiforou said the conditions raise serious public health concerns due to odours and signs of neglect in the facility. He also stressed that the situation undermines human dignity.
Funeral homes in the district are reportedly facing additional pressure as delays affect the timely completion of burials.
Lack of necropsy services in Paphos
The Acting Mayor also highlighted that the Paphos District remains without a resident necropsy officer.
As a result, bodies are transferred to Nicosia for post-mortem examinations before being returned to Paphos, a process he described as unacceptable.
He said this procedure places additional psychological strain on families and increases costs for both relatives and the state due to repeated transportation and operational expenses.
Calls for urgent action
Onisiforou noted that a necropsy officer previously served in Paphos, adding that the system had operated more efficiently and with greater respect for citizens.
He called for the immediate repair and full restoration of the morgue’s refrigeration system, the appointment of a permanent necropsy officer, and proper staffing of the facility.
He also urged an end to the transfer of bodies between cities, stressing that Paphos should not be treated as a second-tier region.
He concluded that respect for human dignity must extend beyond death.
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