A nursery school in Larnaca district has been closed following serious complaints regarding childcare and hygiene conditions, according to the Social Welfare Services (SWS).
The development was confirmed on Wednesday by Maria Kyratzi, speaking on behalf of the Social Welfare Services during an appearance on the Alpha Kalimera programme.
Facility no longer operating
Kyratzi said the facility is no longer operating and noted that the Social Welfare Services had been dealing with the case well before it attracted public attention.
According to her, complaints had already been filed under the procedures provided by law, while some cases had been forwarded to and registered before the courts. Other competent authorities were also informed.
Investigations intensified in August
Kyratzi said the Services stepped up their actions in August, carrying out interventions in cooperation with the Police.
At the same time, Social Welfare officers were providing information and guidance to parents who had identified problematic situations, encouraging them to submit complaints of their own where appropriate.
Legal gap highlighted
Particular attention has focused on the fact that the nursery continued operating and accepting children despite the removal of its registration certificate.
Kyratzi explained that the current legal framework allows authorities to revoke a programme's registration certificate and file complaints with the Police, but does not give the Social Welfare Services the power to immediately close such facilities on their own initiative.
She said the issue has been identified as a legislative gap and is being examined as part of proposed new legislation that would allow authorities to order the closure of programmes in specific circumstances.
Allegations raised by MP
The case was also highlighted on Tuesday by MP Dimitris Syllouris, who referred to complaints from parents and employees.
Among the allegations were claims that infants remained in feeding chairs for extended periods and reports of incidents of food poisoning.
The MP called on the competent authorities to carry out strict and frequent inspections at facilities caring for children.
