THE country is recruiting more nurses to fill up the vacant positions for health workers nation-wide.
This was revealed by the Minister of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) Dr Culwick Togamana yesterday in Parliament during the Committee of Supply to scrutinize the ministry’s budget for this year.
He revealed this in response to a question raised by the Leader of Opposition whether there is a demand for nursing in the country.
In response, Minister Togamana said the ministry needs 321 nurses to fill the vacant positions under the ministry.
He said as part of the recruitment process the ministry has recruited 114 nurses in February and 12 experienced nurses who have recently returned from Vanuatu.
He added by June about 300 nurses who will be completing their internship will be formally recruited.
“By June this year about 426 nurses will be formally recruited to fill the vacant positions, more than the amount we need,” he said.
The minister said the demand for nurses to work around the country is never a shortage.
“It’s the funding that is a challenge,” he said.
Minister Togamana said the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the demand for new recruitment.
Member of Parliament (MP) for West Are’Are John Maneniaru has acknowledged the ministry for the update describing it as assuring to the nation.
By MOFFAT MAMU
