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Employers' Federation Expresses Concern Over Postponement of Bill on Nurses from Third Countries

Published March 16, 2026, 08:10
Employers' Federation Expresses Concern Over Postponement of Bill on Nurses from Third Countries

The Employers and Industrialists Federation of Cyprus (OEB) expresses strong disappointment and concern over the postponement of the discussion in the Parliamentary Health Committee regarding the legislative amendments submitted by the Minister of Health to facilitate the employment of nurses from third countries. The OEB believes that this postponement, in a period of severe nursing staff shortages, causes dissatisfaction among healthcare providers. The OEB points out that this decision is due to trade union pressure and overlooks the right of patients to quality care and the smooth functioning of the healthcare system. It warns that this situation could lead to a restriction of healthcare services or even the suspension of operations of clinics and hospitals. In response, the OEB will convene a meeting of healthcare stakeholders to examine the situation and decide on the next steps. The OEB emphasizes the need for all stakeholders to take responsibility. The OEB believes that this development undermines efforts to address nursing shortages and jeopardizes the provision of quality healthcare services to the population.