Ruggi in Salerno: Reception and concierge staff are in a state of unrest.

Salerno – The provincial FIALS (Italian Federation of Hospitality Workers) has declared a state of unrest for concierge and reception staff at the Ruggi d'Aragona University Hospital in Salerno, effective July 27, citing delays in the payment of additional fees, the elimination of night shifts, and further organizational challenges.

According to the union's open letter to the Campania Region, the Municipality, and the Prefecture of Salerno, the July pay has not yet included the additional benefits accrued in May and June. According to FIALS, no certainty has been provided regarding the entitlements for July.

The dispute also concerns the reorganization of shifts. Starting next August, the union claims, night shifts will be eliminated, ending at 10:00 PM. According to Fials, this change was adopted without prior consultation with workers and could impact the family and personal lives of many employees.

The union emphasizes the role played by concierge and reception staff, which it defines as essential for patient orientation, liaison with departments and clinics, communications management, and logistical support within the healthcare facility. FIALS specifically challenges the notion that this sector is not considered "useful and urgent" for the purposes of recognizing extraordinary services.

The memo also raises issues regarding healthcare workers employed in switchboard and fire-fighting services. The union is requesting payment of night and holiday allowances, weekday holidays, and overtime for the months of April, May, and June, which have reportedly not yet been paid.

Finally, difficulties in managing administrative procedures were reported: some requests for vacation, permits, leaves of absence, and other contractual obligations, according to FIALS, were not associated with a contact person authorized to validate them in the company system.

General Secretary Carlo Lopopolo has requested immediate intervention from the institutions and management of AOU Ruggi, including the convening of a roundtable discussion. Priorities include settling outstanding wages, reinstating night shifts, or at least initiating a transparent dialogue on organizational changes. In the absence of a timely response, the union has announced the possible adoption of further collective action.