Docs threaten to strike again

2009-07-02 22:04

Johannesburg - KwaZulu-Natal doctors were returning to work on Thursday after they were assured by the Congress of SA Trade Unions and its affiliate, the SA Medical Association, that those dismissed would be reinstated.

However, doctors would return to work on Friday morning only until next week - the deadline it has given Sama to break down and explain government's offer on the occupation specific dispensation.

"If we are satisfied that, yes, we are going to be reinstated and if we are satisfied with the whole OSD package, then we will not resume the strike but if not, we are going to strike again," said Cameron McIntosh.

"Within that week a task team must explain to all doctors the implications of the government's wage offer so that a vote can be taken if the offer is accepted or rejected."

Plan from govt wanted

McIntosh said around 1 000 doctors had met to discuss the issue after hearing from Cosatu and Sama.

They had agreed to return to work on Friday morning, at 08:00.

Doctors want government to present them with a plan to repair the ailing healthcare system.

McIntosh said doctors would likely form a new union once this matter had been resolved as they were not happy with the way Sama had dealt with the matter.

Government presented its revised pay offer to the union on Tuesday but this pay package was yet to be presented to union members on the ground.
 

- SAPA