The Ministry of Civil Service is expected to resolve the issue by this afternoon, where Ministry of Health staff on salary scale Band F were unable to receive time off in lieu due to a staffing shortage, which has disrupted radiology and pharmacy services.
Permanent Secretary Parmesh Chand says the Ministry of Health has indicated that they are understaffed, affecting their service delivery.
He says in normal circumstances, with an adequate complement of staff, this would not have been an issue.
While speaking to fijivillage News, Chand says the Health Ministry is presenting a case to allow Band F staff, particularly those with specialised skills in allied health, to be exempted and compensated.
Chand adds that the Health Ministry has stressed that the work performed by these staff is essential and critical for service delivery in the health sector.
He says the Ministry of Civil Service is open to this proposal and aims to find an amicable solution by this afternoon.
The Permanent Secretary recognises the shortage of skilled staff and the extra hours worked, emphasising the importance of work-life balance and ensuring that time off in lieu is always available.
While responding to comments by the Fiji Medical Association, Chand says they are attentive to feedback and adjust their guidelines based on circumstances.
He adds that they aim to meet the needs of the public and will make adjustments as necessary to address emerging issues.
