Health sector meeting at MOF

The findings of a report on the reclassification exercise for public health sector groups are expected to be disclosed at a meeting scheduled for 10 a.m. at the finance ministry.



The finance ministry was asked to convene the meeting by the labour minister Pearnel Charles after some health sector groups objected to the manner in which the reclassification was being handled.



At a meeting last week, the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) raised concerns that the discussions on the reclassification are focusing on nurses rather than on all health sector groups.



Speaking at a press conference yesterday, health minister Rudyard Spencer said while the reclassification exercise is intended for the entire health sector, the nurses have a specific arrangement which stipules a definite implementation date.



Its against this background that the Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ) has accused the JCTU and the other health groups of trying to undermine the implementation of the reclassification for nurses.



Citing a delay in the matter, the NAJ issued an ultimatum on the government for it to make known the report on their reclassification.



When their request was not met several nurses across the island withdrew their services on Tuesday.



The health minister has expressed disappointment with the action by the nurses.