The AMMD stated on Monday that assertions suggesting the association had walked away from talks with the National Health Fund (CNS) are false.
According to the doctors’ group, they were prepared to sign the convention provided the legal framework was reformed.
However, Mars Di Bartolomeo stood by his position, arguing that by stepping out of the convention, the AMMD had effectively withdrawn from the process.
According to the LSAP MP, the association could not expect to influence the outcome if it chose not to participate, as its withdrawal had left responsibility with the government.
Di Bartolomeo called on the AMMD to return to the negotiating table and present its demands directly in talks with the government.
Health Minister Martine Deprez declined to comment in detail, stating that she did not understand where any supposed disinformation had occurred and therefore would not make any further statement on the matter.
The AMMD also accused the Minister of putting pressure on the association by suggesting the CNS could sign a convention with another representative group.
The doctors’ association stressed that it could not simply be replaced as a negotiating partner, highlighting that no alternative association could meet the requirements regarding membership size, experience, or seniority as set out in the Social Security Code.
Deprez, however, rejected this interpretation, clarifying that she had only described the legal context. She explained that if no convention is in place, the CNS has the option to call for negotiations with other associations, as had been the case last December.
In such a scenario, if multiple associations express interest, the most representative one must be chosen.
The Health minister also pointed out that the AMMD continues to participate in five working groups and expressed hope that discussions would move forward constructively.
