Union opposition and private sector pressure on nurse legislation
Cyprus is facing tensions over the prospect of employing foreign nurses, as unions reject proposed legislative changes while private hospitals push for swift approval. The Health Ministry has proposed modifications to allow foreign nurses to work in Cyprus under strict conditions, but unions insist on Greek language proficiency and restrictions on the number and roles of non-Cypriot staff.
Unions demand Greek language proficiency
Union representatives have criticised the Health Ministry’s proposals, arguing they allow nurses from third countries to enter Cyprus without limiting the intake to foreign graduates of Cypriot nursing schools. They emphasised the need for all nurses to have adequate Greek language skills to ensure patient safety and effective communication within healthcare teams.
Parliamentary scrutiny and private sector concerns
Health Committee Chairman Efthymios Diplaros expressed concern over working conditions and salaries in the private sector, noting that changes are being proposed without consultation with nurses. Meanwhile, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation, representing private hospitals and rehabilitation centres, announced plans for a meeting on 31 March to address staff shortages and explore possible measures.
Private hospitals urge action
Marios Karaiskakis, President of the Cyprus Private Hospitals Association, stated that hospitals face a real shortage of nursing staff, intensified by retirements and the opening of new rehabilitation centres. He stressed that private hospitals have no intention of conflict with nurses, but highlighted the need to employ foreign nurses where Cypriot staff are unavailable.
Health Ministry conditions
The Health Ministry proposes that foreign nurses must have moderate Greek language proficiency, with their numbers capped at 10% of total nursing staff in each facility. They would not be permitted to serve as shift supervisors, and their employment permits would be valid for only two years.
Also read: New coast guard service to consolidate six state services
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
