Director

Τhe webpage of the State General Laboratory (SGL) demonstrates the SGL’s vital operational sphere, its innovative system of governance and the impact of its work.

Constant objective of the SGL remains to give continuous, valid and timely information not only to its associates but also to the public at large. It seeks to establish and keep alive an open dialogue with them by creating a relationship of mutual trust and good cooperation based on mutual appreciation and transparency.

SGL is a reputable scientific institution, responsible in areas central to the public interest. Such areas of responsibility cover consumer health, food safety, environmental and consumer protection, Risk Assessment in the food area, police support in criminal investigations and judicial support in the administration of justice.

The wide spectrum of responsibilities is based on the vigour, the profound dedication and high motivation of all its personnel, and on its fundamental values – scientific excellence, integrity, credibility and transparency. This high level of motivation has been acknowledged by external evaluators (e.g. The World Bank) who have confirmed that “SGL is an Institute that is quite exemplary, both in terms of clear objectives and strategy as well as the implementation of good public administration and management practices.

SGL’s strategic objective is to show that Cyprus, not only has the scientific capacity, but must play a fundamental and preventive role at the EU borders, by keeping a vigilant eye for food and consumer goods safety and preventing drug trafficking, while responding to challenges with active participation at EU and national level.

For further scientific and technological development SGL has managed to incorporate research in its work so as to be proactive in emerging risks, prevent or solve existing problems and support policy decisions, while utilizing EU funds.

Challenges at national level are targeted towards reinforcing the monitoring and surveillance capabilities that are so important for risk control, in the crucial context of tighter budgets due to the financial constraints that Cyprus is facing nowadays. This meant closer collaboration and co-ordination with our partners (Competent Authorities, Municipalities, etc.) and EU Authorities and Networks to optimise work done and data collected.

The greatest challenge of course for SGL, remains its drive to abide to its vision through guaranteeing its scientific and methodological excellence in order to maintain the public trust and confidence that has gained and continuously meet the high expectations of its customers and partners.

This user friendly Web page is meant to provide credible information, stimulate interest and generate knowledge, not only to the scientific community but to the public at large, and keep an open dialogue. We look forward to this dialogue and it will be a pleasure to constantly provide information within our remit.

Director
State General Laboratory