Apoteka Beograd begins payment of 16 overdue salaries

Payments for 16 overdue salaries have begun for employees of Apoteka Beograd, according to representatives of the ‘Opstanak’ Union. The Ministry of Finance transferred funds to the City of Belgrade account specifically for these outstanding wages and severance pay. While the initial payments started on Friday, workers expect all remaining unpaid salaries to be settled by Monday.

Despite the commencement of salary payments, the institution faces ongoing operational challenges. The ‘Opstanak’ Union noted that while some agreements reached during meetings with President Aleksandar Vučić have been met, including the verification of health insurance cards, funds promised for operational work have not yet been fully realized. This has left the institution facing a deficit for current months.

To address long-term stability, the state has reportedly taken responsibility for the institution's accumulated debts to wholesalers. Additionally, a budget rebalance by the City of Belgrade is expected to fund the procurement of medicines and other pharmaceutical goods. However, due to public procurement procedures, the first deliveries of goods are not anticipated until next month. The union remains concerned about maintaining regular operations and ensuring the institution's long-term survival amidst competition with private pharmacies.