The MAM doctors' union reported 'some progress' after talks with Health Minister Chris Fearne on Monday evening. Another meeting will be held on Wednesday. However, planned industrial action on Thursday and Friday has not been suspended, union general secretary Martin Balzan said.

The dispute is over the transfer of St Luke's, Karin Grech and Gozo hospitals to Steward Healthcare from Vitals Global healthcare. The union is insisting that the government should not give its consent for the deal to materialise before talks are held. 

Contacted following the Monday evening meeting, Dr  Balzan said the union "stood by its principles" during the discussion.

READ: Steward hospital in US sold to real estate developer

Although some progress was registered, as the MAM elaborated further on its proposals, at this point in time Dr Balzan said he could not divulge more information as it might compromise negotiations.

The MAM will be evaluating its options over the next two days and decide on appropriate action following the meeting on Wednesday.

The union has said that although it agrees in principle on a public-private-partnership for the hospitals, it believes management and leadership should remain in the hands of the government.

The government, it is complaining, is giving its consent to the transfer without giving the union a six-week notice, in breach of their collective agreement.

Last week doctors held a one-day strike at outpatients' departments and some health centres, and later unanimously approved a resolution to proceed with further industrial action this Thursday and Friday should a stalemate persist.

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