Calls were made on Tuesday for President Nicos Anastasiades to see Famagusta hospital turned a university hospital, a request residents say would benefit both the town and the country’s medical expertise.

Cyprus and Luxembourg are the only EU member states without a university hospital. Paradoxically, Cyprus has three medical schools.

“The available infrastructure, the number of patients and the quality of the staff at the Famagusta general hospital, together with the academic staff of the medical school can play a key role for the development of Cyprus’ research activity,” the group of residents said.

The letter, signed by MPs, as well as municipal and community figures, highlighted that having a university hospital would be crucial for the upgrade of Cyprus’ three medical schools.

“The university hospital, through the international evaluations the medical schools receive, will boost the credibility of a medical degree in Cyprus. The need for this has been recognised by society and is currently in the pipeline for a legal framework.”

A number of objections from unions however have dragged on the debate for more than five years.

“This situation is akin to holding medical schools hostage, and has been ongoing for plenty of years,” the letter said.

Seeing as no deal has been made, the Famagusta general hospital would make a suitable choice, offering employment opportunities to researchers who so far choose to leave the country, it added.

A further point in favour of Famagusta is that it has a lower cost of living compared to other cities in Cyprus, particularly where rent is concerned, the signatories noted.

“Famagusta is disadvantaged compared to other districts, and development plans for the future do not show anything different.”

The letter was signed by Constantia-Famagusta bishopric, Famagusta MPs, the municipalities of Famagusta, Paralimni, Derynia, Ayia Napa and Sotira, the community councils in Avgorou, Achna, Liopetri, Frenaros and Agios Georgios Acheritou, the Famagusta tourism company, the city’s chamber of commerce and the union of occupied communities in Famagusta.