LEADER of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has raised grave concern over sexual harassment claims at the National Referral Hospital (NRH).
The concern was raised in the media this week by the General Secretary of the Solomon Islands Nursing Association (SINA) Mr John Muaki.
Hon Wale in a statement said these allegations are serious and demands thorough investigation.
“Any abuse against women in the workplace or our communities must not be ignored and taken lightly.
“Therefore, I am urging the health ministry to investigate these claims and take serious actions,” he said.
The Opposition Leader said the safety and well being of our women at the NRH must be guaranteed.
Hon Wale said sexual harassment is a serious criminal offence and more concerning when it is reportedly done by a senior NRH executive who should be the one protecting our women at the hospital.
He said our women nurses; doctors and health professionals at the NRH play a crucial role in making sure operations at the NRH are managed smoothly.
“80% of employees at the NRH are women and their safety at the workplace must be protected at all cost. The quality of services and the commitment to provide care also depends on how safe women feel at the workplace,” he said.
Hon Wale also called for an independent investigation following claims by SINA that the investigation into this matter was stalled because the alleged perpetrator was the chairman of the disciplinary committee.
The Office of the Leader of Opposition spoke to workers at the NRH and they have confirmed that these allegations have been around for quite some time but have never been dealt with.
“I urge the minister responsible and the PS to make sure these claims are probed and serious actions must be taken. This is to ensure there is trust and respect for our women at the NRH,” Hon Wale said.
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– Opposition Press
