NCRHA rejects TTNNA allegations over nursing arrangements, threatens legal action

The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) has forcefully rejected allegations made by the Trinidad and Tobago National Nurses’ Association (TTNNA) regarding its nursing staff arrangements, describing the claims as false, misleading, and a misrepresentation of an internal administrative matter.

In a media release issued Wednesday, July 22, 2026, the Authority clarified that no nurse was assigned to work only four hours or suffered any financial disadvantage, contrary to the Association’s public statements. The NCRHA emphasized it continues to operate under its existing eight-hour and twelve-hour shift system and has not introduced a four-hour shift.

The Authority explained that a limited accommodation was granted by the General Manager of Nursing to assist a small number of nurses facing genuine health, personal, or transportation challenges. This arrangement affected approximately three percent of its nursing workforce of more than 1,000 nurses, allowing those employees flexibility in completing their required 40-hour work week. In most cases, nurses continued working eight-hour shifts, while the additional four hours were managed under existing pool arrangements.

The NCRHA further stated that no complaints were received from nurses who benefited from the accommodation. It also rejected suggestions of a nursing shortage, noting that it has recently recruited more than 100 nurses, significantly strengthening its staffing complement and reducing reliance on pool arrangements.

The Authority accused the TTNNA of publicly misconstruing an internal operational matter intended solely to support a small group of employees while maintaining continuity of patient care. It questioned the timing of the Association’s statements, noting they come as the TTNNA approaches its national elections, and suggested the issue may be used for purposes beyond nurse welfare.

Maintaining that it has breached no law, regulation, or employment obligation, the NCRHA said its actions were lawful, transparent, and undertaken in the best interests of both staff and patients. The Authority is actively considering all legal remedies available to protect its reputation and that of its officers.