KHMHA Workers Union Rejects Ex-Gratia Proposal

The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union (KHMHAWU) has firmly rejected a revised ex-gratia payment proposal put forward by the hospital authority and the Government of Belize.

The union says the proposal is a significant step back from earlier commitments.

The union said, “The membership of the KHMHAWU has overwhelmingly and decisively rejected this latest proposal, as it fails to adequately recognize the dedication, loyalty, and service of staff over the years in question.”

KHMHAWU also criticized what it described as a “misleading” public statement issued by the hospital authority and government.

It said, “The claim that staff “enjoy a great deal” at the institution is misleading. The so-called “incentives” and “benefits” cited in their release — including medical care, staff clinic access, and allowances — are basic rights that have been earned by staff through their hard work and commitment, not favors graciously bestowed by the employer.”

The union accused the hospital of divide and conquer tactics. “We view this attempt to characterize fundamental employment entitlements as extraordinary privileges as a divide and conquer tactic designed to shift focus from the real issue: the long-overdue and just recognition of staff’s service through fair and meaningful compensation. We condemn this approach and cry Shame! Shame! Shame!”

The union called on the government to return to the table in good faith.