Amid the ongoing labor dispute between Hawai‘i Pacific Health and the Hawai‘i Nurses Association, Governor Josh Green and Attorney General Anne Lopez are advocating for federal mediation to expedite a settlement. In a recent statement, Gov. Green emphasized the importance of nurses in Hawai‘i's healthcare system and the need to resolve the conflict quickly. He said, "Our nurses are a critical piece of our health care system in Hawai‘i. I encourage both parties, who I respect, to request the assistance of a federal mediator. A neutral mediator can help break through barriers and guide both sides toward a fair agreement that serves our community and allows us to care for our sickest children," as mentioned on the Office of the Governor website.
These calls come not from a place of intervention but as a plea for a constructive, facilitated dialogue. The governor urges the two sides to continue to ensure care for the community, despite the tension, and to maintain health benefits for the nurses. "During this phase of the negotiation, with a federal mediator, I would ask that both parties ensure that no services are interrupted at Kapi‘olani and that the nurses continue to receive their health benefits. These gestures of good faith should help the parties move forward," Gov. Green stated, according to the official press release from the Office of the Governor.
On her part, Attorney General Lopez emphasized that while Governor Green does not have the power to directly intercede in private negotiations, he stands ready to support the mediation process if requested by both parties. In outlining the legal boundaries within which the governor can act, Lopez clarified, “The Governor cannot intervene in private negotiations, but he is ready to assist through mediation if both parties request it,” as per the Office of the Governor press release.
With a sense of urgency to find common ground, Governor Green offered state resources to the parties involved, including conference rooms as neutral spaces for discussions. This initiative aims to promote unity and collaboration. Governor Green emphasized the need to focus on resolution and expressed confidence that mediation could lead to a solution benefiting the people of Hawai‘i during these challenging times.
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