Health Services Workers Union Calls For Hard Work In 2014

The Health Services Workers’ Union (HSWU) has urged its members to work hard in 2014 in order for productivity to be commensurate with demands for improved remuneration and better working conditions.

“While urging the teeming members to work conscientiously in their lawfully chosen occupations to enhance productivity, we remind the government and employers that the responsibility for managing productivity rests squarely on them. We reiterate this important concern to the Union since the Health Sector has recently come under criticism for poor service delivery, among other criticisms,” it said..

In a Christmas and New Year message to its members, the General Secretary, Mr Abu D. Kuntulo, noted that, the union cherished the working relationship, unity, commitments and collaboration in 2013.

“As we are about to be ushered into a new year, leadership in oneness prays that God will renew our strength and grant us exceptional favour, wisdom and foresight to carry out our duties and meet the aspiration of members,” it said.

It noted that the labour front had been confronted with some major challenges on the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) and its attendant agitations in the areas of implementation of outstanding issues.

One of the challenges, it said, was the fair placement of some members’ pay levels and the payment of the eight (8) months’ salary arrears by the government after the negotiated 10 per cent base pay for the SSSS by the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee (PSJSNC).

The statement said astronomical increases in the utility tariffs had been a major challenge to the Union considering the fact that water and electricity are basic necessities.

“Notwithstanding these challenges, HSWU for that matter continues to deliver health services ‘willingly and unsweavingly’ as the Union’s motto emphasises. The Leadership of HSWU will continue to intensify its District and National basic education and training drive to inspire and encourage members to continue to work with Managements in the health facilities,” it said.

That, it said, would ensure quality healthcare delivery to maintain industrial peace in the health service and its environs.

It urged its members to remain resolute in their firm belief of “trade union principles of solidarity, unity of purpose, cooperation and collaboration whilst leadership continues to work towards the achievements of common goals in the interests of all.”