Romanian health workers stage 2-hour strike over wages

BUCHAREST, Romania – Romanian health workers have staged a two-hour strike to protest a government measure that has led to wage cuts for some employees while some medics saw their salaries doubled.

Employees gathered outside hospitals around Romania Monday and yelled: "We want our compensation back!" and "Shame on you!"

Health workers were only treating emergency cases. Unions have threatened to go on an all-out strike Friday if the wage issues are not resolved.

Health employees are angry that the government has cut compensation that some get for working in dangerous or risky conditions. They say doctors have seen substantial salary increases, while some nurses and health assistants had lost out.

Health Minister Sorina Pintea, who has met with hospital chiefs, called on them to manage their resources better to cover wage losses.