10 April 2013

Outsourcing hospital food will cost NZ in the long run

Short term attempts at saving money in the Health system will likely cost New Zealanders in the long run, Green Party industrial relations spokesperson Denise Roche said today.

The Government plans to close all hospital kitchens across New Zealand and outsource the making of hospital meals, which will cost 1300 jobs nationwide.

“The move to outsource hospital meals to a multi-national consortium based in only Christchurch and Auckland will see patients and workers suffer,” Ms Roche said.

“This decision will mean workers currently not employed in either Auckland or Christchurch will be out of work while there is no guarantee those working in either Auckland or Christchurch will keep their jobs.

“Those workers in Auckland and Christchurch will have to compete for jobs with a large multi-national consortium interested in keeping wages and costs down.

“Patients will also suffer if there is any hold-up in transporting their frozen meals around New Zealand.

“Losing the ability to prepare meals in-house takes away any chance for hospitals to ensure healthy, and good quality meals are provided to their patients.

“This decision today is made without any concerns for the workers involved, and the effect it may have on patient’s welfare,” Ms Roche said.

“The Government should also be mindful of the number of times a large multi-national has emphasised cost savings which have later turned out to be illusory once a contract has been awarded.”

ENDS

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