26 Dec 2018 | 06:09 PM UTC
Venezuela: Nurses to protest in Caracas December 26, 28
Nurses at public hospitals to protest on December 26 and 28 in Caracas; heightened security presence expected as well as disruptions to medical and transportation services
Event
The president of the College of Nurses in Caracas announced a protest rally will take place outside Hospital Pérez Carreño on Wednesday, December 26, to denounce the dismissal of nurses who demanded salary increases in June. Organizers also indicated they will stage a demonstration at Plaza La Moneda on Friday, December 28, and will attempt to submit a list of demands to the Venezuelan Institute of Social Security (IVSS). A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are possible in near demonstration sites. Healthcare service disruptions are also possible, particularly at public hospitals, for the duration of the protests.
Context
Labor unions representing healthcare workers in Caracas have launched several strikes and demonstrations following the dismissal of nurses in June for demanding higher wages. According to representatives, several nurses were dismissed in recent weeks despite a shortage of healthcare workers. Due to an ongoing economic crisis, healthcare services in Venezuela are experiencing a shortage of qualified personnel and medicine, resulting in delayed or inadequate care.
Advice
Individuals in Caracas are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
