Hospitals across Trinidad and Tobago faced serious disruptions over the weekend after nurses staged a sickout in protest of worsening pay and staffing conditions. Reports indicate that some emergency departments were left critically understaffed, with only one nurse on duty in certain units and others left completely without coverage. 

The industrial action stems from growing frustration over changes to overtime arrangements, including reduced hours and lower pay rates. Nurses say the adjustments have significantly affected their income, particularly as overtime forms a major part of their earnings. 

Health authorities have defended the changes, stating that overtime remains in place under structured rates, with compensation ranging from time-and-a-half to triple pay depending on hours worked. Officials also insist they are working to ensure fairness and consistency across the system. 

However, nurses argue that the issue goes beyond pay, pointing to chronic understaffing, unsafe working environments, and a lack of basic supplies. Some have warned that without urgent intervention, further industrial action could follow in the coming days. 

The standoff highlights mounting pressure on the country’s healthcare system, with both sides now under increasing scrutiny to resolve the dispute before patient care is further affected.