Region 10 Medex fails to take up post

The contract for a retired Medex at a Berbice River location has been renewed several times due to the failure of a medical officer from Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) to take up the post in the riverine area.

The issue was brought to light by Councillor Charles Sampson during a recent meeting of the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council (RDC). Sampson pointed out that matter was one of grave concern for the administration and one which has resulted in numerous complaints which were raised during a recent visit to the location by Regional Councillors.

While he explained that he has nothing against retirees, Sampson said the impression he received is that the retired Medex is incapable of carrying out certain functions.

“I get the impression that this person is not competent… I want to suggest that we seek alternatives,” he told members of the Council.

In addressing the issue, Regional Chairman Renis Morian noted that the retired Medex’s contract will not be renewed again. As such, the medical officer will be required to take up the post. He added that while there are a lot of qualified persons in Linden who are seeking employment, the situation has prevented others from being afforded the opportunity to fill the position.

“Why that person is there is because the officer didn’t take up her position. Our position here is that this person’s contract would not be renewed after they have retired. The officer will take up their position and that’s the end of it. We’re not going back on that again,” he noted.

The Regional Chairman pointed out that in certain instances, a retiree’s contract would be renewed because they possess a special skill; however, in this instance that was not the case.