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1 Jul 2009

Following national government's Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) offers to doctors this week, the Western Cape Minister of Health, Theuns Botha, is calling on all doctors not to take up strike action.

"I am calling on doctors in the Western Cape to contain the situation and not to take up strike action. I understand that the South African Medical Association (SAMA) is not satisfied with the offer on the table and we do sympathise with the difficult working circumstances in hospitals. It is also my understanding that further negotiations are under way.

"I want to give doctors, dentists, pharmacists and emergency staff that I, together with the heads of this department, will support your cause in the negotiations, but we need you to reciprocate our needs, and that is to continue with your work in a responsible manner, and in accordance with your oath of ethical behaviour.

"For the well-being of this province, I implore you to attend to your work and not let our hospitals move into a crisis situation. Give the negotiations a chance."

Botha confirmed that he had a conversation with the chairperson of SAMA Western Cape, Dr Mark Sonderup. He is still awaiting a document from Dr Sonderup on their analyses of the salary offers, and their objections and grievances.

Enquiries:
Hélène Rossouw
Cell: 082 771 8834
Tel: 021 483 4426
E-mail: herossou@pgwc.gov.za

Source: Western Cape Provincial Government

Issued by: Western Cape Health
1 Jul 2009

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