Nurses urge speeded-up compact talks

The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has urged the government to resume national compact negotiations swiftly while welcoming long leave and uniform allowances announced in Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s Budget.

“The BNA appreciates the inclusion of provisions for long leave benefits and the uniform allowance….It is heartening to see efforts being made to recognise and support nurses who play a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of the community,” BNA President Dr Fay Parris told Barbados TODAY. 

“The BNA eagerly anticipates the swift continuation of national compact negotiations. This collaborative endeavour between the government and the BNA is significant in addressing critical issues that impact healthcare professionals.”

Parris explained the compact discussions stem from the BNA’s 87th Annual General Meeting last month. Recommendations included establishing two nursing levels – Registered Nurse and Senior Registered Nurse – and salary restructuring and non-financial incentives.

“These comprehensive compact strategies aim to provide incentives to enhance nurse retention and ultimately contribute to a more robust healthcare system,” she said.

In the Budget speech last week, Mottley said nurses with over 15 years of continuous service would benefit from longer vacation leave. She also announced a National Compact with the BNA to recruit and retain nurses through various financial, professional, and personal development incentives.

“We anticipate that this compact…will result in more nurses opting to remain in the health sector at home and to continue providing quality care,” Mottley said. She added that as “an act of good faith”, nurses will receive an additional six weeks’ vacation after 15 years of service.

Addressing uniform delays, the prime minister pledged her administration would provide nurses with a uniform allowance.