As the Cabinet meeting continues at the Government Buildings, Interim Health Minister, Doctor Jona Baravilala Senilagakali has assured people that the essential health services will not be affected if the nurses go on strike.

It was confirmed earlier that the FNA had given Interim Public Service Minister, Poseci Bune until midday today to come back with a reply before they announce their plans for strike from midnight tonight.

Doctor Senilagakali who left the cabinet meeting in the last hour saying that he was going to the Association Headquarters to have a meeting in relation to the strike returned a few minutes ago and said that their plans are ready for the strike. He said further comments will be made after the cabinet meet.

However when Village News spoke to FNA General Secretary, Kuini Lutua, she said there was no meeting planned with Doctor Senilagakali.

Before entering the cabinet meeting room this morning, Interim Public Service Minister, Poseci Bune said that it all depends on the interim cabinet on whether it wants to accommodate the requests of the Nursing Association.

However, Bune has made it clear that the interim regime can only afford to give the 1 percent paycut restoration in December this year, and not the full 5 percent restoration next month.

Lutua will speak to us on their planned strike after the interim cabinet's decision on the revised Memorandum of Understanding.

Meanwhile Village News, has received confirmation that the Health Ministry asked all the nurses around the country yesterday, on whether they would go on strike from midnight tonight or remain at work.

The nurses have given their decision to the ministry and it is understood that rosters have now been prepared for midnight tonight and onwards, if the FNA members do go on strike.