Free rapid tests should continue

 

Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson Giorgos Koukoumas

31 July 2021, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

AKEL once again calls on the government to suspend and reconsider the decision to abolish free rapid tests. Yesterday’s decision by the Council of Ministers contradicts the need to continue rapid tests in mass numbers as a measure for the prevention and containment of the pandemic. In addition, this decision will end up placing a financial burden on working people in order for them to have access their jobs.

The government should have listened to the World Health Organization which recommended increasing access to free rapid tests and the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency, which argues that diagnostic tests must be universal, accessible, timely and free. We also point out that the scientific group advising the government has also stressed the need for mass testing to continue, while the Commissioner for Administration has also called for a review of the government’s decision. The government’s concern must be – not to coerce – but to convince and respond to the concerns of citizens who have not yet decided to be vaccinated.

AKEL has asked since yesterday that the decision to abolish free rapid tests be tabled for discussion in the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee.