Nehawu Free State threatens strike if demands are not met

Nehawu in the Free State says Health MEC Matso Mahlatsi must address hazardous working conditions at the Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein or they will go on strike.

Workers also say there is a shortage of staff and beds.

Free State Nehawu Secretary, Khauhelo Mnqibisa, says their demonstration is emphasized by non-operational wards.

“The demonstration also emphasized that there is a continuous experience of critical influx of patients while operating with severe staff shortage in a form of both clinical and non-clinical staff. This pressure has been exacerbated by the closure of some wards at National Hospital, which remained non-operational since the fire incident last year. As a result Pelonomi is bearing the burden of an overstretched system leaving its limited staff overwhelmed and struggling to meet the demands of patients care.”