Health technicians march in Funchal during national strike
Madeira GuideSESARAM put strike participation at 77%, while the union said it was between 90% and 100% and reported disruption to radiology, clinical analysis and pharmacy services.
Higher diagnostic and therapeutic technicians demonstrated in Funchal as they joined a national strike called by the Sindicato Nacional dos Técnicos Superiores de Saúde. Protesters gathered outside Quinta Vigia, hoping to be heard by the president of the Regional Government, before marching to Palácio de São Lourenço to deliver a motion to the Representative of the Republic for Madeira.
SESARAM said participation in the stoppage was 77% and that several health services in the Region were affected. The union put participation above 90%, with a representative estimating it at between 90% and 100%, and said several services were closed. It said radiology, clinical analysis and pharmacy services were affected, with exams and surgeries cancelled.
The professionals called for a salary scale suited to their functions, full application of the Regional Legislative Decree on their career, adaptation of the regional progression accelerator for SESARAM workers on individual employment contracts, and regularisation of evaluation points accumulated since 2023.
SESARAM said it respects the right to strike, remains available for dialogue and has held regular meetings with representative structures. It said a meeting with the union was scheduled for 19 October to examine demands and seek solutions, including strengthening teams.
The health service also said it was preparing procedures for a recruitment competition across the career's professions, based on an assessment of needs. Recruitment arrangements and deadlines will be announced after internal procedures and necessary authorisations are completed.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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