But, he added, it will not hamper the delivery of health care to members of the community.
“My office is also doing its very best to accommodate all the needs of the [center’s personnel] under the circumstances,” he said.
Dela Cruz said it is not new that some employees would blame his administration for not providing their requests or needs.
However, he added, he is obligated to streamline operational expenses based on what was appropriated and provided for by the fiscal year 2011 budget.
“I am in a very uncomfortable position and I will take responsibility despite the fact that I am simply implementing what is allowed by the budget,” he told Variety.
He said the exemptions from the reduction of hours “did not originate from my office.”
He added, “Even if THC brings in a scientist, the fact remains that the entire CNMI is under very tough economic crisis and THC is not sparred from [the funding] shortfall.”
Dela Cruz said he will be reaching out to every member of the THC staff to request their cooperation.
He said working together as a team is the only way they can continue providing quality health care to the people of Tinian.
