A long-awaited report into whistleblowing bullying allegations within NHS Highland has again been delayed.
The independent inquiry has been carried out by John Sturrock QC and a ministerial statement was expected to be made at the Scottish Parliament tomorrow.
But that has been put off until next Thursday due to “pressure of business” at Holyrood.
Liz Gordon, of the GMB Union, which has supported the whistleblowers and called for the inquiry, said: “It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain faith. Publishing this report should be of the highest priority not continually kicked down the road.”
Edward Mountain, MSP for the Highlands and Islands Region, added: “It appears that the pressures of Scottish Parliamentary business has forced the Ministerial Statement on John Sturrock’s Inquiry to be delayed until next week.
“This is hugely disappointing due to the seriousness of the bullying allegations.
“I know many people’s lives and aspirations have been put on hold and they have been kept waiting for an outcome to this inquiry.”
Four clinicians came forward in September last year to make claims of a systemic bullying culture over a decade.
In December, health secretary Jeane Freeman announced an inquiry into the claims was to be led by John Sturrock
The same month chief executive Elaine Meade retired and Iain Stewart took up the £137,379-a-year post.
In February chairman David Alston quit and Rod Harvey left his role as medical director. Prof Boyd Robertson has taken on the interim chair job.
The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.
