Union members from the Aspen-managed Ba and Lautoka hospitals have recently participated in a secret ballot to consider industrial action. According to John Paul, the national secretary of the Construction, Energy, Timber, Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF), a detailed log of demands addressing improvements in working conditions and a request for wage increases was presented to Aspen Medical earlier this year.
Paul noted that workers involved in the ballot do not include nurses and doctors, emphasizing that the union comprises approximately 200 members at the Ba and Lautoka facilities. He expressed concerns regarding unpaid public holiday compensation and the delayed disbursement of overtime wages, which have been issues influencing their decision to potentially strike.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges that healthcare workers face when it comes to fair compensation and conditions in their workplaces. As union members take steps to voice their grievances, it signals a stronger collective effort to improve their situation, fostering a culture of advocacy for workers’ rights.
In summary, the union’s actions underscore the importance of dialogue between healthcare workers and management, setting the stage for potential negotiations that could lead to better conditions for all parties involved. With continued advocacy, there is hope for a resolution that not only benefits the union members but also enhances the healthcare services provided at these facilities.
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