Updated | Doctors decide against withdrawing industrial dispute

The Medical Association of Malta has decided against withdrawing an industrial dispute, after the council consulted and garnered the support of its members.

The council is insisting on a number of administrative changes at the health centres which would improve the quality of the service and provide adequate security for staff members.

The increase in the number of doctors and a promised number of administrative changes were welcomed.

However, MAM members condemned without reservation the interference from various individuals in ministerial secretariats in the daily running of health centres either directly and indirectly. The interference focuses on insisting that patients without appointments are seen – despite various agreements and protocols to the contrary – or that house calls, which are manifestly prohibited by established protocols, be performed.

“This is unfair on patients with emergency problems and who have to face delays due to overcrowding. It creates chaos within the health centres many times leading to problems with safety and security,” MAM general secretary Martin Balzan said.

While welcoming the progress in the negotiations, MAM members decided not to withdraw the industrial dispute and authorized the MAM council to issue of trade union directives as from June 20.

“MAM members hope that this period will be used by health centre management and put the house in order, and lead by encouraging all members of staff to treat patients fairly and equitably without interference.”

In a reaction, the Nationalist Party said that health services should not be politicised and condemned political interference. In certain cases, the PN said, the interference also came from Castille.

“This interference is not limited to the health centres but also at Mater Dei Hospital, in particular the Emergency Department and out patients,” the PN said.

It urged for fruitful discussions between MAM and the government in order to avoid industrial action.