Doctors Issue FG Two-Week Ultimatum To Implement New Welfare Package
Jul 30, 2022
The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government two weeks to implement agreements concerning their welfare or face industrial disharmony which would result in shutting down major operations across hospitals in the country.
NARD said that after the expiration of its window for implementation of the new welfare package agreed upon by both parties, all its members would leave work and embark on an indefinite industrial action.
The association gave the the ultimatum after their National Executive Council meeting which held in Lafia, Nasarawa State on Saturday, a forum that afforded the medical experts to deliberate on their members welfare across the country.
In a communique signed by NARD President, Dr Dare Ishaya, the doctors unanimously agreed that they would reconvene in another two weeks to review the progress made so far, as it relates to their demands.
The doctors are asking the Federal Government to expedite action on the payment of the newly reviewed Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) so its members can meet up with the closing date of examination registration as advertised by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN).
They are also demanding the immediate implementation and payment of the new Hazard Allowance and arrears as contained in the circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
Other demands include the payment of the skipping arrears for 2014, 2015 and 2016 to deserving members and immediate payment of consequential adjustment of minimum wage to its members who have not benefitted since it was implemented several years ago.
The doctors are demanding an immediate review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and other related allowances given the current economic situation in the country, and also in line with the agreed terms from the previous Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that it will be reviewed regularly.
