Matters escalate over new field hospital, says Unite

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 Thursday, April 2, 2020 - 10:39

Unite the union has stated that bullying in the GHA should be taken seriously and not set aside during the Covid-19 crisis. The union's position continues to be fully supportive of and cooperative with the Government of Gibraltar given the current demands which are unfolding with the COVID-19 pandemic. With full support to the joint efforts to contain and minimise the spread of infection, whilst protecting the most vulnerable and caring for all frontline workers effectively.

The union adds: The developments in the last week regarding the senior appointment at the Nightingale field hospital have resulted in members contacting the union through all mediums to raise their concerns.

"The union wrote to the Chief Secretary on this issue on Friday to seek certain assurances regarding the appointment; however matters have escalated in the last couple of days. The decision to make this senior and very public appointment is now spreading unrest, anxiety, low morale and raising significant concerns amongst frontline healthcare workers.

This is because the outcomes of the bullying at work claim to the employment tribunal against the GHA have not yet been addressed and members are understandably questioning this senior appointment.

The Unite Health Branch Officials has met to discuss member concerns concluding that the medical expertise of the said individual can serve well and be utilised productively during the Covid-19 crisis, but question marks prevail over the senior appointment. The Unite Health Branch therefore is seeking urgent dialogue with the Government of Gibraltar to address the negative response received from members and to ensure that combined efforts against Covid-19 are not undermined in any way.

Stuart Davies, Unite National Officer for Gibraltar said: "Given the obvious disquiet that this appointment would cause amongst our membership against the backdrop of the employment tribunal judgment and unresolved, associated issues, it is disappointing that the union were not briefed in advance. This would have provided the opportunity to seek key assurances to assist in dealing with member concerns. The priority is clear, that is the collective fight against Covid-19; however this appointment has proven divisive, as well as proving to be an unwelcome distraction.

"The Health Branch have been measured in their concerns and criticisms, recognising that the medical battle against this virus is key and all medical expertise is required for that collective effort; however concerns are still prevalent regarding the seriousness with which the GHA view bullying in the workplace. The current crisis takes clear precedent over any industrial dispute; however the Health Branch are making the public call for dialogue with Government on this issue to positively address the concerns of members and to ensure that the sole focus of the GHA's resources is on tackling Covid-19".

02-04-2020 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR