Media Release
23 March 2016
Auckland DHBs Disappointed to Receive Strike Threat
The three Auckland DHBs are disappointed to have received the first of the PSA’s threatened strike notices today for around 3,000 allied, public health and technical staff covered by bargaining for a collective agreement.
The proposed strike action is for a four-hour withdrawal of labour from 10am to 2pm on Friday, 8 April 2016 across the three DHBs.
“The DHBs have always acknowledged the brilliant work our allied, public health and technical staff do to support the delivery of patient care. We know that committed health professionals work hard to meet the increasing health needs of the public”,said Julie Patterson, Chair of the DHBs’ Workforce Strategy and Employment Relations Strategy Groups and Chief Executive of Whanganui DHB.
“In our experience, the PSA has been a responsible union and constructive DHB partner in the health sector. That’s why we’re disappointed that it’s chosen the approach it has to the current bargaining.”
The DHBs have proposed that they seek an independent recommendation from the Employment Relations Authority on options to settle this impasse and avert strike action.
“Again, we’d urge the PSA to support the DHBs’ constructive proposal, instead of proceeding with its proposed strikes. Strike action in the health sectorimpacts on patients, clients, and their families and whanau.
“Their access to the high quality health services they expect from a public hospital will be disrupted. It also puts strain on teams of health professionals,” said Ms Patterson.
“Of course, striking workers will also lose pay.”
The outstanding issue in the dispute is the appropriate weekend penal rate.
“We have heard statements that the DHBs are looking to reduce wages and change hours of work. The DHBs categorically reject these claims.”
On the contrary, late last year the DHBs offered, and union members were advised by the PSA to reject, a 4% increase in wages over 2 years and a guarantee that all existing staff would retain current weekend rates.
Having received notices, the DHBs will put in place mechanisms to ensure the impact of the strike action on patients is minimised as far as possible.
“The PSA still have a window to call off these strikes. History has shown that strike action in the health sector doesn’t achieve anything; it just creates unnecessary disruption and cost. We’d urge the PSA to reconsider its approach and accept the DHBs offer to attend facilitation,” said Ms Patterson.
Issued on behalf of the Auckland DHBs by Mick Prior, General Manager, Strategic Workforce Services for the 20 DHBs.
Further information: Gerry Morris 0274 428 217, .