The Ministry of Health has proposed a salary increase of 52 euros for all nursing positions, a move that has drawn criticism from the Nurses' Union (SE).

Pedro Costa, president of the SE, labeled the ministry's proposal as insufficient, particularly for new nurses, and emphasized the need for more substantial adjustments.

The SE is currently in discussions with ministry officials following the suspension of negotiations on July 16, which was triggered by a strike notice from the SEP.

The upcoming meeting is seen as a pivotal moment for nurses to voice their concerns amid the ongoing crisis in the National Health Service.

Minister of Health Ana Paula Martins has urged nurses to express their outrage during a planned strike on August 2 and to engage in summer protests.

Unions have established a 'red line' regarding the demand for two salary indices, warning of potential actions if their requirements are not met.

The SEP has reiterated that strike notices are intended to facilitate discussions on nurses' demands, aiming for a resolution.

Costa emphasized that the unions' demand for two remuneration indices is non-negotiable and was reaffirmed during recent meetings.

Minister Martins and Secretary of State for Health Management Cristina Vaz Tomé are scheduled to meet with union representatives to discuss these pressing issues.

SEP President José Carlos Martins criticized the government's proposal as unacceptable, prompting strong feelings of indignation among nurses ahead of the planned strike.

The SEP has announced plans for a national strike on August 2, asserting that the government's proposal remains unacceptable and highlighting the mobilization of nurses.

SEP leader Guadalupe Simões noted that nurses have felt silenced during negotiations, which contributed to the suspension of talks until the strike notice is resolved.