Rahael sees no problems in move to RHAs

Health Minister John Rahael does not anticipate any problems when amendments are made to the Regional Health Authorities Act, transferring those health workers, including doctors employed with the Public Service, to the Regional Health Authorities.

Speaking to Newsday yesterday, Rahael said there were still a “few doctors” under the Public Service and it is the intention of the amendments for them to go across to the RHAs. At the post-Cabinet media briefing Thursday, Rahael disclosed that the amendments will also recognise the Public Services Association (PSA) as representative and bargaining body for RHA workers. Questioned how this will affect those doctors who are not members of the PSA and who are being individually represented by members of the yet to be recognised Medical Professionals Association of TT (MPATT), he said the PSA “will represent all their members.”

Rahael added that those doctors who do not want the PSA will have to continue to negotiate “one on one.” He said an employer cannot negotiate collectively with any organisation until it gains recognition. Vice president of the MPATT Dr Lakhan Roop said the association is yet to hear exactly what the amendments will be. Last year, MPATT applied for recognition with the Registration, Recognition and Certification Board to represent RHA doctors, but is yet to receive a response. “I don’t know if they (the Ministry) can legislate for the PSA to become the bargaining body (for doctors), it seems to go against the rights of freedom of association.” He said MPATT would seek legal advice on the amendments. Former Health Minister Dr Hamza Rafeeq said for all the Public Servants in the health sector to be transferred to the RHAs would require changes to the Constitution.