By Phileleftheros Editorial

Copyright philenews

The inauguration of the Hadjiyiannio Health Center in Akaki took place last Sunday. The project was initially decided upon in 2005, under the Tassos Papadopoulos administration. The delay in executing the work is attributed in part to the economic crisis that occurred after 2010 and peaked in 2013.

The project was completed with a 20-year delay. And a project of this nature, concerning public health, cannot be left on the shelf because there was an economic crisis. There were other projects that could have been “frozen”, rather than one that concerned citizens’ health.

‘It is unacceptable for a country to take 20 years to implement a project, from the day of the decision until the day it becomes operational,’ the president said whilst inaugurating the Health Centre. “If we want to be an effective state, we should not be proud if it takes us 20 years to implement a project”.

And obviously this is neither the first nor the last public project to be delayed. Recently the government has terminated state contracts with contractors because, amongst other things, they are delaying projects.

It has terminated contracts when it was evident that those who undertook to execute the work could not deliver on the contract.

The state must ensure that projects are completed within the agreed timeframe. Without delays and without additional financial cost. The Akaki Health Centre was delayed by 20 years. However, it should be noted that the foundation stone was laid in October 2023. The work began and was completed within the set timeframe.

The president of the Republic of Cyprus emphasised, nevertheless, that “those who undertake state contracts must complete them on time. If they don’t complete them, they’re out. That’s why we dared to terminate several contracts, because the state is not held to ransom by anyone”.

This is what must be done. This will safeguard, in our view, two fundamental issues. First, that timetables will be adhered to, and second, that costs will not rise due to delays and changing circumstances.

If those who enter into contracts and agreements with the state know in advance that they will lose the job if they don’t adhere to the contract to the letter, then they will find ways to comply with what has been agreed.