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– Linden nurses tell PM, Edghill
Nurses of the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) have said that the ‘sweet man’ statement made by CEO Rudolph Small, Chief Executive has tainted their image in the mining town.
The nurses who were invited to meet with the Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill at the Watooka Guest House on Wednesday, were given a chance to disclose the reasons behind the protest action.
According to the nurses, the statement made by Mr. Small has resulted in them being taunted and harassed by persons of the public, males in particular, which has made them concerned for their safety.
The statement has also interfered with interpersonal relationships with their spouses.
Additionally, the nurses pointed out other issues relating to why they are protesting for the removal of Small from the position of CEO. Such issues include misconduct, failure to renew contracts including the sanitary removal contract, lack of drugs and materials at the hospital and the poor conditions under which they work.
The Prime Minister condemned the statement made by the CEO, while calling it “irresponsible and insensitive”.
However, he Phillips added that the matter is before the Ministry of Health, Labour and the Guyana Public Service Union as such, he appealed to the nurses to give the three parties time to rectify the problem.
“The matter is before the Ministry of Health, Labour and the Guyana Public Service Union. We have to give the three groups the opportunity to resolve this conflict. If you are resolving a conflict, there are rules of engagement. We have a body of laws and rules that we all have to observe as we seek a resolution,” Phillips noted.
Also at the event was Member of Parliament, Devin Sears who indicated that Small must be held accountable for his actions.
Sears stated, “Small holds a position of authority and he also has a position of influence. While an apology might have been given, it cannot be accepted. In this day and age, when you hold a position of influence and power you must be held accountable for what you are saying. I believe that the government has to act because there are some issues that the nurses are faced with that is beyond their control.”
Meanwhile, the nurses remained resolute that their protest action will continue until Small is removed.
