State General Laboratory Annual Report 2018

4 State General laboratory Annual Report 2018 (f) its contribution to the classification of Cyprus as the first at European level in the microbiological purity of bathing waters of its beaches, (g) the continuation of official controls for identifying and withdrawing inappropriate food and other consumer products from the Cyprus market, as well as their introduction into it, (h) the representation of Cyprus at European and international level, as being the Cyprus Contact Point on issues of Food Safety, Human Biomonitoring, Environment and Health, (i) the representation of the EU in European and international fora in areas such as human biomonitoring. The SGL is a scientifically mature, accredited organisation that contributes to the socio-economic development of the country and the improvement of the quality of life of the Cypriot citizens. At the same time, it can and should contribute to further enhancing Cyprus's role in the European Union's scientific activities: that is why it continues its efforts aiming at its recognition as a "Center of Excellence". To this end, the inclusion in the state budget of 2018 of a relevant financial allocation for the construction of the new SGL building, with a deadline for its completion by 2023, will contribute to the maximum. In order to carry out its work and achieve its goals, the SGL has the constant support of the Director General of the Ministry of Health, the Minister of Health, whom we thank in particular, as well as its other collaborating Authorities and partners. Through its vision, the goals achieved and the actions undertaken, with the dedication, diligence and accountability of its staff, to which I express my deepest gratitude, I consider 2018 as a year of success for the SGL with a positive impact on society and the economy of the country. I do hope that this publication will be a source of valid information for all the competent Authorities, people interested in the SGL’s work and more generally for all citizens, in order to build a relationship of mutual trust and cooperation based on scientific integrity and transparency. Dr Stelios Yiannopoulos Director of SGL Excellence. The foundation to a better quality of life.