Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government's report in reply to its previous comments concerning Article 1, paragraphs 1 and 3, Article 2, paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 and Article 5, paragraph 1, of the Convention. It requests the Government to provide additional information on the following points:

Article 2, paragraph 2(b). The Government refers to its first exercise in reclassification of registered nurses which is under way. The Committee would appreciate receiving additional details on this exercise and on any other efforts which have been undertaken or are envisaged in respect of the employment and working conditions of nursing personnel.

Article 5, paragraph 2. The Committee notes from the interim agreement concluded at 21 August 1990 supplied by the Government that this agreement is applicable only to wages. Please indicate whether other conditions of employment and work are also determined by negotiation and whether there is such agreement applicable to nursing personnel in the private and public sectors in these areas, and, if so, supply copies of these collective agreements.

Article 5, paragraph 3. The Committee notes the procedures described by the Government which are related to the settlement of disputes arising in connection with the determination of terms and conditions of employment. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide more comprehensive and detailed information on the settlement machinery to which it refers and on the role of the organisations representing nursing personnel in this process.

Article 6. The Government indicates in its report that nursing personnel in the public sector enjoy the same working conditions as other public servants. Please supply the copies of the provisions which apply in respect of (a) hours of work; (b) weekly rest; (c) paid annual holidays; (d) educational leave; (e) maternity leave; (f) sick leave; (g) social security. Please provide also copies of collective agreements, if available, regulating each of the subjects covered by this Article in the private sector.

Article 7. The Committee notes the efforts undertaken by the Government to give effect to this requirement of the Convention. Please indicate whether any special measures have been taken or are envisaged to improve laws and regulations on other aspects of occupational health and safety by adapting them to the special nature of nursing work.

Point V of the report form. Please continue to supply the information requested under this point of the report form regarding the manner in which effect is given to the Convention in practice. The Committee would also appreciate receiving a copy of the Nurses and Midwives Act, 1964 which appears to be under revision, upon its adoption.