Redwood Staff Vote to Step Up Strike Action

26 November 2003

Redwood Staff Vote to Step
Up Strike Action

New Zealand Nurses Organisation members at Rotorua’s Redwood Lodge Rest Home and Hospital voted yesterday to take further strike action in December.

Redwood staff are spending another day on the picket line today, with a further 24-hour strike planned for tomorrow.

NZNO organiser Shane Vugler said Redwood staff resolved yesterday to take further strike action on 11 and 17 December if the dispute with their employer, NZ Lifecare, is not resolved.

NZ Lifecare will not agree to the level of staffing NZNO members believe is necessary for the safety and quality care of the elderly residents.

“Our members are committed to ensuring the safety of residents and staff,” said NZNO organiser Shane Vugler.

“The elderly residents in Redwood and across the aged care sector can’t advocate for themselves. Redwood staff are taking a stand over the staffing levels necessary to ensure quality care.”

Staff are also angry with NZ Lifecare Ltd’s pay offer, which would bring the hourly rate for most staff to $10.60 and comes with the threat of slashed weekend allowances.

NZNO is claiming a salary range of $10.00 to $12.50 for caregivers, based on formal qualifications and experience.

Redwood staff will picket outside the home, on Rotorua’s Te Ngae Road, from 7am-6pm tomorrow.

ENDS

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