The Fiji Corrections Service has responded to the concerns raised by the Fiji Medical Association regarding the termination of a medical officer previously employed within the FCS saying that there are three distinct matters that need to be addressed.
The FCS says the termination of the medical officer is strictly an employment issue and the officer concerned is free to pursue the matter through the appropriate legal avenues, including the Employment Relations Court, should he wish to challenge the decision.
They say the second matter is the allegation of racism, and the FCS takes all allegations of misconduct, including racial discrimination, very seriously.
They add this particular allegation is being handled internally following due process and the senior officer involved is facing disciplinary action, and an Assistant Commissioner will be travelling to Lautoka next week to formally hear the case.
FCS says the third matter is the vacancy of the medical officer post where the position of Medical Officer is currently vacant and will be advertised in due course.
They say in the interim, two nurse practitioners have been assigned to manage medical services in the central and eastern divisions — one in Suva and another who will be based in Naboro.
FCS says a third nurse practitioner who had initially been appointed has since resigned without assuming the position, and this vacancy will also be re-advertised.
They further say that the Fiji Corrections Service remains committed to maintaining professional standards and ensuring the highest level of healthcare services for those in their care and they will continue to take necessary steps to uphold integrity and address concerns in a fair and transparent manner.
