The directives issued by the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses (MUMN) after the conclusions of an inquiry into the disappearance of a patient from St Vincent de Paul, "will affect the patients, elderly residents who will undeservedly bear the brunt," the Active Ageing Ministry has said.
MUMN had taken exception to the conclusions of an inquiry into the disappearance of Karmenu Fino, and issued directives to nurses in protest. The inquiry found that the disappearance was the result of shortcomings in the standard of care provided by employees rather than a systematic failure.
The Ministry for Active Ageing referred to the announcement of the directives being issued by the MUMN in elderly homes.
"Whereas the ministry appreciates and respects the efforts of the MUMN to continue to improve the conditions and interests of its members, this should not detract from the Ministry's obligation to safeguard the patients entrusted in its care," the ministry said.
The ministry is also obliged to seek the interest of the relatives of these persons whilst commending and encouraging the thousands of employees who perform their work correctly and with dignity. These are the principles that guide the operations of the Ministry."
"Furthermore, it is very concerning that the union directives came into effect immediately following the announcement of the conclusions of an independent inquiry, led by a former member of the judiciary," the ministry said. The ministry said that it appointed an internal independent inquiry not only to address the case in an earnest manner, but also because it felt that an independent and respected entity should investigate the case.
The directives will affect the patients/elderly residents who will undeservedly bear the brunt, it said.
The ministry added that it will "continue to act in a dignified, correct and transparent manner, in respect of the patients' interest and the vast majority of employees, including members of the MUMN, who carry out their duty diligently and with utmost dedication."