Anger over timings of NHS Highland bullying review
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Health minister Jeane Freeman has been accused of “disregard” and “disrespect” after it emerged MSPs will only have 90 minutes to read the report concerning allegations of bullying at NHS Highland before asking questions on it in parliament.
Regional MSP Edward Mountain has been left incensed by the move after a ministerial statement addressing the review, due yesterday, was delayed by a week.
The review was ordered in November following a string of claims by staff which emerged in September.
John Sturrock QC was charged with carrying out the independent review and heard testimony from almost 300 witnesses.
Mr Mountain said: “I have asked for early advance of the report given the engagement I have had with NHS Highland and the Scottish Government on this issue.
“However, the cabinet secretary for health has confirmed that the report will only be made available 90 minutes before the ministerial statement on May 9. Frankly, 90 minutes is not enough for MSPs to digest a thorough report before we consider it in the Scottish Parliament.
“Given the seriousness of the bullying allegations, I think it shows disrespect to MSPs and a disregard for those who have given evidence to the inquiry. The staff of NHS Highland deserve better than this.”
The GMB Union, which co-ordinated many of the witness statements of those who alleged bullying, also slammed the move.
Spokesman Gavin Smith said: “We are disappointed the report has been delayed. GMB and staff affected by bullying within NHS Highland look forward to reading the report when it is released.”
The Scottish Government said: “The Sturrock Review is in the process of being finalised and we will be making arrangements for its release when this has concluded.”
