The newly opened psychiatric wards at Mount Carmel Hospital “meet international standards” and were specifically designed around patient safety and recovery, according to Prof Anton Grech.His comments come after the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses raised alarm over alleged safety risks linked to the refurbished Block 1 ward, which was inaugurated today by Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela.In a statement, Prof Grech said the new wards were purpose-built for acute psychiatric patients, with both the structure and furnishings prioritising “patient needs and safety”.He also defended the inclusion of therapeutic gardens within the ward design, saying access to nature and open spaces is considered an important part of recovery and wellbeing for patients receiving psychiatric care.“The opening of these wards marks a significant breakthrough in mental health care,” he said, noting that the facility provides 46 beds in what he described as a “modern, safe and welcoming environment”.Prof Grech added that the transfer of patients into the new wards will happen gradually and under strict supervision.“Transfer and care of patients to the new wards will be done in a step wise manner, with parallel safety measures, to ensure patients and staff safety both in the wards and in the therapeutic garden,” he said.However, the reassurance comes as MUMN claims nurses repeatedly warned hospital management and the Health Ministry about potential dangers tied to the adjoining therapeutic garden.According to the union, staff feared the area could make it easier for vulnerable patients to abscond or attempt self-harm without immediate intervention. Concerns were also raised about the height of surrounding walls, which the union described as low enough for patients to escape easily.MUMN alleged multiple reports and emails had been sent to management and health and safety officials without action being taken, and claimed the therapeutic garden had not yet been officially certified as safe before today’s inauguration.The union also said some nurses are refusing to admit patients into the refurbished ward over fears they could face legal consequences if an incident occurs.MUMN has since said it plans to formally write to the Advocate General over what it described as a hazardous situation.The dispute now places the spotlight on the balance between modern psychiatric care design, which increasingly promotes open, therapeutic environments and the practical safety concerns raised by frontline healthcare workers.What do you make of this?•