JMDA gives Finance Ministry 24 hours to resolve overtime pay issue

The Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) has written to new Finance and the Public Service Minister, Fayval Williams, expressing ”profound disappointment and growing frustration” with what it described as continued delays in resolving the issue of overtime remuneration for its members.

The association has given Williams 24 hours to act on the matter or risk the likelihood of instability in the health sector.

In a letter on Thursday, the JMDA said, “Once more, today’s meeting with the Ministry of Finance and Public Service (MOFPS), the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), and the Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) failed to yield any meaningful progress. Instead, it has reinforced the perception that the concerns of Jamaica’s doctors are being met with delay and flagrant disregard.”

Fayval Williams

The association listed its concerns as:

Ongoing Concerns:

1. Breach of Trust:

"Our members are deeply disturbed by these negotiations (that are) characterised by a lack of transparency and accountability. The Government's continued failure to honour our agreement undermines the trust between the Government of Jamaica and the JMDA."

2. Impact on Healthcare Delivery:

"The breach of trust, delays and uncertainty have taken a toll on our doctors who work tirelessly under challenging conditions. They have compromised the quality of care we are able to provide to the Jamaican people, as a demoralised workforce cannot sustain the high standards of care that the public deserves."

Our Position:

"Our members are disheartened by the (perceived) lack of urgency and transparency. Despite our repeated efforts to collaborate with the Government and negotiate in good faith, the process is marred by evasion and procrastination. These delays are not only disrespectful to our members who form the backbone of the nation's healthcare, but they also jeopardise the entire health system."

The JMDA said it remains steadfast in its demand for a fair and timely resolution (of the matter).

“We seek not merely for improved compensation; we seek for the dignity of our labour to be upheld, and the continuity of quality healthcare in our nation.

“At yesterday’s meeting, we made it clear that we expect a comprehensive and transparent resolution within 24 hours. We will no longer accept these persistent delays. Should the MOFPS, MOHW and (the) RHAs fail to act decisively, we cannot guarantee that the health sector will remain unaffected in the coming days,” the association stated in the letter to Williams.

“The JMDA is calling on the Ministry to act now. This is not just a matter of policy; it is a matter of principle, respect and justice for those who dedicate their lives to the service of our country, Jamaica. The health of our nation depends on it,” concluded the association.

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