Private healthcare sector challenges nursing staff hiring legislation

The Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) is organizing meetings with healthcare stakeholders following the Parliamentary Health Committee's decision to postpone the review of two legislative amendments. These government-proposed amendments aim to facilitate the hiring of nurses from third countries to address critical staff shortages in private hospitals. Proposed provisions include requiring moderate knowledge of the Greek language, limiting non-EU nurses to 10% of total staff, prohibiting them from acting as shift supervisors, and limiting work permits to two years. While the Health Ministry argues these measures are essential for systemic stability, nursing unions have criticized the process as unilateral and lacking sufficient consultation. Some political parties have reportedly avoided immediate discussion due to the current pre-election period. The OEB and other private health organizations, including the Cyprus Private Hospitals Association and the Cyprus Medical Association, warn that inaction may lead to reduced services or facility closures. The OEB continues to evaluate its next steps in response to the political gridlock.