DHBs disappointed by union stance
District Health Boards are disappointed that some laboratory workers have decided to refuse a settlement offer similar
to one already accepted by 75 percent of workers in the sector.
DHB negotiators and unions under the umbrella of industrial advocacy firm Contract Negotiations Services Ltd (CNS),
represented by Dr Deborah Powell, have finished talks on a potential combined settlement agreement, similar to that
recently achieved by CTU unions.
As part of this process, members of the NZ Medical Laboratory Workers Union (NZMLWU) employed by 13 District Health
Boards (DHBs) and the NZ Blood Service were asked to consider two alternative scenarios for settling their pay
negotiations. The union advised that the results of their discussions with members would be known and employers notified
by the end of May. DHBs and NZBS have yet to be fully informed of the results of this process, however strike notices
have been received in several DHBs.
DHB spokesperson Karen Roach (CEO Northland DHB) says DHBs want settlements on employment agreements that reflect the
reality of the difficult financial environment the sector faces. “It is extremely disappointing that – in contrast to
the constructive and considered approach adopted by the union parties to the recent National Terms of Settlement* – this
union‘s preferred approach is the use of strike action.
“The majority of workers in the sector have engaged constructively with the DHBs and reached a settlement that
recognises the challenges DHBs face and allows us to focus on improving sustainability.
“Like the rest of the country, we are operating in extremely tight fiscal conditions. Our priority is to provide the
best possible health care to the communities we serve, within current financial constraints,” she says.
“The NZMLWU seems to be ignoring these issues and is seeking a higher financial settlement than others in the sector.
“DHBs have asked for mediation on the matter and, along with the NZ Blood Service, have contingency plans in place to
enable provision of Life Preserving Services for the duration of any strike action. We will continue to keep our
communities informed.”
ENDS