The Minister for Labour, Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte served as mediator at a recent meeting between the Saint Lucia Nurses Association and the St. Jude Hospital’s Board of Directors held to discuss the April 2024 dismissal of the hospital’s Nursing Director.

The Nurses Association has challenged the dismissal, arguing that the proper procedure was not followed. The issue was brought to conciliation, and has now been elevated to mediation in a renewed attempt to find a common ground.

Minister Poyotte mediated the latest meeting, held on July 4.

“I went through the whole process again and considered all the evidence available in order to make a decision. I do not want to speak to the decision as both parties have up to 21 days to convey whether they have accepted the decision or not. What I can say is that I have ruled on the matter based on my findings,”she said.

The Minister made a special appeal to both parties to work together in the interest of citizens.

“In spite of what transpired, I would like the parties to continue to work together in the interest of all Saint Lucians and to maintain the philosophy of the Government of Saint Lucia of Putting People First.”