BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands Nurses Association (SINA) reminds the Government through the Ministry of Public Service, that the countdown on its strike notice has now reached 17 days on Thursday this week.
SINA in a statement said that the strike notice was issued on March 23, 2026, more than halfway through the legal 28-day notice period.
SINA said that its industrial concerns are separate from the ongoing political situation while they acknowledge the current political developments in the country
The association said its issues have remained unresolved since 2019, resurfaced in 2025, and have now escalated into matters of national importance in 2026.
The association said that regardless of the outcome of any political or judicial processes, its claims remain valid and require urgent attention from responsible government authorities.
SINA also confirmed it has declined advice from the Attorney-General’s Office to withdraw the strike notice, maintaining that it was issued in compliance with the Trade Disputes Act and the Essential Services Act.
“SINA remains committed to its lawful course of action,” the association said.
The association highlighted that concerns relating to the restoration of leadership and governance structures within the nursing workforce have been under discussion for about 12 months without resolution.
These issues are closely linked to outstanding claims under the 2015 revised Scheme of Service, which have yet to be addressed, according to SINA.
SINA said that prolonged delays have negatively affected the effectiveness, morale, and professional standing of nurses, who make up about 60 percent of the national health workforce and play a critical role in healthcare delivery across the country.
The association calls on the Government, through the Public Service, to engage constructively and resolve the outstanding issues within the remaining notice period to avoid further escalation of the dispute.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the National Referral Hospital, Dr George Malefoasi, did not provide comments despite attempts by Island Sun to obtain a response yesterday.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
