Health committee meets Mkhize over shortage of protective gear

There is growing concern of the lack of protective equipment for health workers who are at the frontline of the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (Nehawu) has even threatened to obtain a court interdict to force the government to supply the equipment to workers.

Committee chair Sibongiseni Dhlomo says they are well aware of the reports on the absence or shortage of masks at public facilities.

"We expressed the concern following reports that are in the public domain about unhappiness conveyed by trade unions regarding the shortage of protective gear for health workers at public healthcare facilities amid the Covid-19 pandemic," says Dlomo.

Dlomo says the committee has already met with Mkhize, who agreed that the safety of healthcare workers is paramount.

“If we translate, this means there would be no staff member who would be on the frontline to see and receive patients without the protective clothing, especially masks. This will give assurance to the trade unions and healthcare workers that we indeed support them and care about their safety.”

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