Asunción, June 29 (PL-RHC)-- After the strike by airport workers ended, physicians and teachers said that they will go on strike and rallies on the eve of Pope Francis'' visit to Paraguay.

Amid a complex social situation in the country, the National Trade Union of Physicians (SINAMED) confirmed the plan to go ahead with the general strike from July 6-8 and will last until 9 July, the eve of the Pope's visit.

SINAMED General Secretary Dr Lilio Irala pointed out that the lack of response from the government to their demands caused the ratification of the strike, as healthcare services are increasingly chaotic in Paraguay.

Irala stated there are irregularities, for example, in Ciudad del Este, where there are four beds in the intensive care unit and a population of 60,000, but only two of the beds function properly.
Dr Irala said that the Ministry of Health was in chaos, citing the example of physicians who earn the same wage whether they work 12- or 24- hour shifts.