Nurses' Strike in Algarve: A Stand for Fair Compensation
Nurses in Algarve going on work stoppage
The current strike by the SEP (Portuguese Nurses' Union) in the Algarve region is causing disruption from 8:00 am today till midnight, also affecting the period from 8:00 am on the 8th to midnight on the 9th.
The strike affects nurses working at the ULS (União das Misericórdias Portuguesas or Local Health Units) in the Algarve, which includes public hospitals in Faro, Portimão, and Lagos, along with the Central, Barlavento, and Sotavento Health Center Groups.
The union's key demands are as follows:
- Retroactive Payments: Since 2018, they are seeking unpaid overtime and other compensations[1][2].
- Favorable Performance Reviews: They also push for all nurses to receive "Good" performance assessments, which may impact their careers or benefits[1].
- Double Pay for Holidays and Weekly Rest Days: Nurses are demanding payment for holidays and weekly rest days worked, considering it vital for fair compensation[1].
However, the Algarve ULS administration questions the strike, stating that they've been actively engaging in talks and have met with the union on March 17[3]. They argue that accusing them of no further contact since February is false.
The administration also points out that the demand for retroactive payments since 2018 conflicts with the current legal framework, only allowing payment from January 1, 2022[3].
- Collective Bargaining: The nurses' demands form part of broader collective bargaining efforts aimed at reaching fair compensation and working conditions.
- Legal Action: In cases where disputes arise, legal action may be required to enforce payment. The outcome would depend on the specifics of each case and existing legal precedents.
- Labor Laws in Portugal: Portugal's labor laws, including those governing healthcare professionals, are based on the Portuguese Labor Code (Código do Trabalho) and specific healthcare regulations. Retroactive payments are usually subject to negotiation and agreement between employers and unions.
This strike suggests a lack of agreement in the ongoing negotiations or offers from the administration. It's essential to follow the evolution of negotiations and any potential legal actions in the coming days.
In the ongoing collective bargaining negotiations, nurses in the Algarve are pushing for fair compensation, including retroactive payments and improved performance reviews, as part of their efforts for workplace wellness and mental health. The retrospective payment demands face challenges from the Algarve ULS administration due to current Portuguese labor laws that permit payment for such compensations only from January 1, 2022. The pending legal resolution of these disputes could set a precedent within the health-and-wellness industry and the finance sector.
