Lakeshore nurses intensify stir

KOCHI: The nurses’ protest at the Lakeshore Hospital took a turn for the worse after lengthy talks between the management and United Nurses Association (UNA), mediated by the Labour Commissioner, remained inconclusive on Thursday. Both the management and the nurses’ union stuck to their stand on offering permanent positions to the 18 trainee nurses, including the three that  were sent off.“In protest against the management’s adamant stand, managing director Dr Philip Augustine was burnt in effigy, and it was decided to gherao at the hospital’s main entrance from 4 pm,” UNA president Jasmine Shah said.On the other hand, the hospital management is sticking to its original statement about the trainee nurses. “In the talks held with Labour Minister Shibu Baby John, it was made clear that the trainee nurses cannot be given permanent employment as many of them were on probation and had agreed on its legal provision which meant leaving upon completion of the training period. However, the union is now being unnecessarily adamant and resorting to protests that are adversely affecting the hospital’s functioning. They have even blocked a police jeep, giving it the contours of a law and order problem. Therefore, I have complained to the District Collector and the IG,” Dr Augustine said.After the failure of the talks, the nurses began to block the entry and exit of employees at the hospital. Amid the protest, the maximum question marks hang over the care of the 280 patients admitted to the hospital. Sources at the hospital add that even vehicles carrying essential items are being blocked, despite the court’s directive to the police to ensure smooth functioning of the hospital.“Both parties are unwilling to give an inch on the issue of reinstating the trainee nurses. However, the management has agreed to the UNA’s demand of fixing the pay-scale based on the date of joining the hospital. There is also an agreement on direct appointment of candidates who have undergone internship. Both parties are insisting that the Labour Minister should resolve the issue. Although the next session of talks is scheduled for March 19, it might have to be advanced in view of the situation,” said Labour Commissioner T T Antony.