**Title: Christodoulides Announces Over €60 Million in New Health Spending**
President Nikos Christodoulides revealed a significant investment of over €60 million aimed at enhancing health infrastructure in Cyprus during an announcement made on Sunday. This funding is earmarked for several critical projects across the nation, reflecting the government's commitment to improving healthcare services.
The allocation of €61.7 million will specifically target the second and third phases of development at the Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital. This facility has been a focal point for mental health care in Cyprus, and the new funding is intended to address the increasing demands for mental health services, which have intensified due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and various social changes.
In addition to the upgrades at Athalassa, the funding will also support the establishment of a new infectious diseases unit at the Nicosia General Hospital. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the capacity of hospitals to manage infectious diseases, a concern that has gained prominence in recent years.
Further investments will be directed towards upgrading the intensive care unit and the pathology department at the Larnaca General Hospital. These improvements are expected to bolster the hospital's ability to provide critical care and diagnostic services, which are essential for patient outcomes.
Moreover, the Troodos Hospital will undergo significant upgrades and maintenance works, ensuring that healthcare facilities in this region are equipped to meet the needs of the local population.
With this latest announcement, the total expenditure on health infrastructure since the Christodoulides administration took office has reached €206.7 million. This figure underscores the government’s prioritization of health services as a vital component of national policy.
The President also mentioned the planned construction of a new hospital in Polis Chrysochous. The government issued a decision regarding land expropriation for this project in March, and plans for the hospital's construction were discussed in January during a meeting with local representatives and Paphos district MPs. The foundation stone for the new facility is scheduled to be laid in February next year, with the completion of construction anticipated by the end of 2028. The estimated cost for this new hospital is €17 million.
This new investment comes alongside a previously announced €128 million for health infrastructure improvements slated for 2024. However, the government has faced criticism regarding delays in the upgrades at the Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital, which have raised concerns among trade unions. The Public Servants’ Trade Union (Pasydy) highlighted that these delays undermine the provision of mental healthcare in the country.
Pasydy emphasized the importance of a new psychiatric hospital as a critical component for addressing the growing needs in mental health care. The union has called for a stronger commitment to mental health, arguing that investment in this area is essential for social cohesion and the overall well-being of the population.
The first phase of upgrades at the Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital was completed in October 2023, costing just over €10 million. This phase has provided modern facilities designed to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals with mental health challenges, respecting their dignity and rights.
As the government moves forward with these initiatives, the focus on enhancing health infrastructure is expected to play a crucial role in improving healthcare delivery and addressing the evolving needs of the Cypriot population. The investments announced by President Christodoulides mark a significant step towards strengthening the health sector and ensuring that quality services are accessible to all citizens.