BMA holding first ballot of its kind as it looks for 12.6% uplift
Doctors on the Isle of Man will be balloted from today (19 November) to determine whether they want to take industrial action in a row over pay.
The British Medical Association is putting the matter to a vote in the first ballot of its kind on the Island.
It's seeking a 12.6 percent uplift for the 23/24 financial year saying doctors are 'deeply frustrated', 'overstretched' and 'underpaid'.
Treasury Minister Alex Allinson, who's a former president of the Isle of Man Medical Society, claims strikes would damage patient care, lengthen waiting lists and exacerbate current funding issues for the NHS.
This week the @TheBMA will be asking Isle of Man Doctors to vote on possible industrial action. As a GP & former President of the Medical Association I will be voting NO. Strikes would damage patient care, lengthen waiting lists and exacerbate current funding issues for our NHS.
— Dr Alex Allinson MHK for Ramsey (@allinson_alex) November 18, 2024
Speaking on Manx Radio Breakfast this morning Dr Allinson said taking industrial action will destroy the good work that's been done over the years causing a set back.
He added that he feels uncomfortable knowing that some doctors who vote to disrupt patient care at a time when it's needed go against the ethos of why he got into medicine:
Manx Care has previously said it’s ‘not even close’ to settling this pay dispute.
Since April 2021 it’s made the following offers:
-
- 3 percent for the 2021/22 financial year (offer accepted by the BMA)
- 6 percent for the 2022/23 financial year (offer accepted by the BMA) + £1,000
- 6 percent for the 2023/24 financial year (offer rejected by the BMA)
- 4 percent for the 2024/25 financial year (offer rejected by the BMA)
The ballot will run until 23 December - you can find out more HERE.
Met Office issues coastal overtopping warning
Questions raised about airport's safety and workplace culture
Garff Commissioners introduces street light scheme to be more 'proactive'
Douglas Council purchases seven EVs for 'fleet renewal' programme