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Hopsital staff protest in the packing lot. Photo Credit NewsCo
The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has issued a statement acknowledging the recent industrial action taken by some of its staff members in response to outstanding retroactive payments.
The hospital’s Board of Directors and Executive Management said they understand the frustration this situation has caused, extending apologies for any distress experienced by both employees and patients.
In the lead-up to the industrial action, hospital management had communicated with staff about the outstanding retroactive pay, emphasizing that resolving this issue was a top priority.
They expressed gratitude for the continued patience displayed by their dedicated workforce.
The hospital indicated that monthly allocations would be made available to facilitate the retroactive payments owed to eligible employees, which stem from a government decision to implement the remaining 9% of a previously agreed 14% salary hike for all public servants.
This adjustment is retroactive from January 1, 2018, to January 31, 2024.
In light of the recent developments, the hospital has committed to expediting payments, promising that all eligible staff will receive their owed amounts by the end of the week. This approach aims to address the staff’s needs more effectively and resolve the matter promptly.
While acknowledging the disruption caused by the industrial action, the hospital reiterated its commitment to the well-being of both its staff and patients. They expressed appreciation for the public’s understanding and support during this challenging time.
The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre said it remains determined to navigate this situation as swiftly as possible, reinforcing its dedication to the health and welfare of the Antigua and Barbuda community.
Why does government workers’ overtime not get paid as it works like the private sector?? Keep accumulating overtime hours can cause millions in debt to pay out. The government needs to budget it over time annually and let overtime goes to critical department like healthcare, police, public works, APUA, etc. Too much unnecessary overtime kept accumulated annually.
Remember the covid monies too
hmm. The lies of the government continue to run deep withing our nation. Feeding lies to keep the pitbulls from raging, but never look into what truly lightens a person. This is what we voted for? the people have to get loud before their monies can be paid. look at how the government made the nation get loud in just one day.
Why is it taking so long to pay the people. Is not like they not entitled to it. Just pay them jack
Ahh. Should we hang on to another promise? I’d like to know. Tell me now
So you are against teachers striking but for you are for this strike. So only teachers are not to get paid?
Well done Hospital Staff. Other groups of ppl need to do this as well.