Government denies Delay in Negotiations with Health Services Workers’ Union

The HSWU issued a warning on November 7, threatening to take decisive action if negotiations are not finalized by Monday, November 11. However, the FWSC insists that it remains committed to concluding talks in good faith and within a reasonable timeframe.

According to the FWSC, discussions have progressed significantly since the union submitted its initial proposals, with both parties signing Rules of Engagement on April 17, 2024, and conducting several meetings since. A final agreement was initially planned for October 9. However, the HSWU expressed concerns that many of its members would not benefit from the terms and proposed additional items for consideration, leading to an extension of the talks.

The FWSC revealed that a new list of demands was submitted by the union on October 15, prolonging negotiations. The FWSC further stated that it had called the HSWU to another meeting on November 7 to address outstanding issues, only for the union to issue its press release hours before the scheduled session. FWSC called this move “unfair” and a display of “bad faith,” urging the HSWU to retract the statement and apologize.

FWSC emphasized that only one item remains unresolved and assured the public that a conclusive meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 11. Both sides are expected to finalize the agreement at that time. The FWSC encourages the union to maintain dialogue and avoid actions that could disrupt the negotiation process.