Media Release 21 February 2018
15,000 signatures supporting a better deal for nurses
NZNO delegates today handed over to district health board multi-employer collective agreement (MECA) lead advocate, Kevin McFadgen 15000 signatures to an open letter supporting a better deal for nurses.
In December, when the NZNO members rejected the first negotiated offer from the DHBs, NZNO launched an online petition in support of its members at www.together.org.nz/iheartnurses
Dear District Health Board Chief Executives
‘Nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants are the heart of our public healthcare services. Their skills, hard work and compassion keep all New Zealanders happy, safe, and healthy. I support better pay and healthy workplaces in our public healthcare services for our precious nursing and midwifery teams. Please keep our local health services safe and sustainable by delivering our nurses a better deal.’
NZNO Industrial Adviser Lesley Harry says nurses want to achieve pay rates and conditions that provide for a sustainable workforce and healthy workplaces.
“DHBs will soon confirm a reconstructed offer for members meetings in March. Any new offer needs to deliver improvements on our key issues if it is to be accepted by members,” she said.
Presenting the letter NZNO delegates Sarah Gilbertson and Karen Durham said:
“The pay and conditions for health care workers must improve in order to sustain a quality healthcare service for all New Zealanders.”
“This issue is also about how we recognise and reward our predominately female workforce.”
“The outcome of these negotiations is a reflection on our society and the value we place on health. Well supported health teams improve the health of all New Zealanders.”
ENDS.