The Federal Government has expressed shock and disappointment over the sudden strike embarked upon by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) after reaching agreement on issues of dispute.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, said this in a statement signed by Mr Samuel Olowookere, Deputy Director Press in the Ministry on Tuesday in Abuja.
“Federal Government is shocked by the sudden u-turn by the leadership of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) after it has reached a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Federal Ministry of Health on its 6-points demand.
“The Federal Government was utterly disappointed that NARD, without enough reasons, reneged on a Collective Bargaining Agreement, detailed with timelines for faithful implementation.
“NARD signed Collective Bargaining Agreement and less than 48 hours after, they embarked on strike. This is a breach of the law.
“Workers should not breach the law of the land because the law protects them more than the employers.
“That is why tripartitism is important; people must come and talk and must embrace social dialogue.
“These are issues the labour centres must address because every persons rights stop where another man’s right start. Your right cannot be absolute.
“This is an industrial rascality and the trade unions must fashion out ways of ensuring that their members keep to collective agreements,‘’ he said.
The minister further said that with the powers conferred on him by the Trade Dispute Act 2004, has apprehended the ongoing strike by NARD.
He added that consequently, the meeting between NARD and the government earlier scheduled for November 2, 2017, will now be convened on Sept. 6, 2017 by 12.30p.m at the Conference Room of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment.
“All stakeholders are implored to attend this crucial conciliation meeting.
“The health and well-being of Nigerians are cardinal to President Buhari’s administration. Hence, every measure necessary shall be taken to restore normalcy,” he said.