A state-of-the-profession review of the past year, reveals an absence of support in the working environment, burnout, understaffing, and lack of opportunities for professional development, the Pancyprian nurses and midwives association (Pasynm) announced on Wednesday.

These research-backed findings, the union said, raise serious concerns for patient safety. The nurses and midwives aim to strengthen their stake in decision-making processes, saying “no [efforts] will bear fruit or fulfil expectations if not undertaken in a spirit of cooperation, teamwork and consensus.”

The announcement emphasised the health workers’ legally enshrined right to exercise the integrity of their profession, and to fair and equal treatment, and said they intended to make everyone aware of this.

“Despite serious concerns for patient safety, we have continued to show courage, provide care, and promote health and well-being in our role as health professionals and we are proud of our contribution,” the official statement continued.