Unions reach pay settlement with DHBs

The New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) is pleased to announce that its members have reached an agreement with District Health Boards (DHBs) for a National Terms of Settlement (NToS).

For the first time, key health unions, including NZNO, negotiated together with DHBs for common and individual improvements in terms and conditions. The alternative bargaining initiative was developed to create better, more effective ways for unions to advocate for their members during this period of belt-tightening in the public sector.

NZNO is pleased that the alternative bargaining framework has worked well in this instance but cautions against assuming that it would work every time.

“Every agreement negotiated between DHBs and unions brings it own set of issues; there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution” said NZNO industrial advisor Glenda Alexander.

Members voted to ratify the proposal in meetings around the country over the last several weeks.

The NToS includes a two percent pay increase, new processes for resolving issues and an agreement that DHBs will work positively with unions to implement safe staffing levels and healthy workplaces.

“Our members have acknowledged how hard things are in this current financial environment and have deferred their 2 percent pay rise for nine months after the agreement commences.” said Glenda Alexander.

“Members have made a responsible decision and are looking forward to working constructively with DHB managers to ensure that every workplace is a healthy workplace.

“Making sure that every patient receives the right care in the right place at the right time is at the heart of a healthy workplace.” said Glenda Alexander.

ENDS

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