MEDICAL SPECIALISTS AND DOCTORS OF THE GOVERNMENT AND CITY COUNCIL (Resignations)

Wednesday, 11th November, 1959

Mr Thio Chan Bee asked the Minister for Health-

(a) how many medical specialists and doctors have left, or given notice of resignation from, the service of the Government or the City Council since 30th May, 1959;

(b) whether he is aware of the considerable discontent among the remaining medical specialists and doctors over their increased duties and emoluments: and

(c) what steps he proposes to take in the matter.

Inche Ahmad Bin Ibrahim: (a) (i) As from 1st June, 1959, one medical specialist left Government service and one has given notice of resignation. 27 Medical Officers left Government service and 4 have given notice of resignation while one Medical Officer has left Government service on completion of his contract. As against this 29 doctors have been recruited since 1st June, 1959.

(ii) As from 1st June, 1959, 7 doctors resigned from the service of the City Council and one doctor was medically boarded out.

(b) I am aware that there is discontent amongst some medical personnel in the service.

(c) Negotiations are taking place between their Association and the Ministers for Health and Finance for the granting of professional allowances to doctors, and it is hoped that a successful outcome of these negotiations would improve the position.