CDHB And Minister Conflict Over Funding For Offer

Thursday 15 September 2005
MEDIA RELEASE
ATTENTION: INDUSTRIAL/HEALTH REPORTERS

CDHB And Minister Conflict Over Funding For Offer

“The Canterbury District Health Board and the Minister for Disabilities Issues, Ruth Dyson, appear in disagreement over the funding available to make an offer to end the five day strike at Canterbury District Health Board’s (CDHB) Hospitals,” said Martin Cooney, organiser with the National Union of Public Employees (NUPE).

He was commenting on remarks made by NUPE delegates to a rally of 250 striking health workers who ran a picket outside Christchurch Hospital Boiler House today. “The delegates reported that Ruth Dyson had stated at a public meeting in Christchurch last night that the CDHB was not telling the truth about the Government only offering 1.7% funding for non clinical staff pay rises. “

“The CDHB has publicly stated they have been given only 1.7% funding to settle with support staff like clerical, cleaners, maintenance and information services staff,” said Martin Cooney. “Delegates reported that Ruth Dyson has contradicted the Board and stated that the CDHB was receiving $44m of new funding that could be used for pay rises with a 7.3% total increase in funding.”

“The new information around the Board’s funding is being clarified by NUPE. However NUPE members have reacted angrily to the figures, feeling the Board has not been honest with them.”

“Members are seeking a 30% catch-up for 15 years of neglect and are now into their fifth day of strike,” said Martin Cooney. “The lack of clarity round the Board’s position has not been helpful in bringing the dispute to an end.”

“Delegates will meeting at 4pm today to decide whether to proceed with the fifth day of strike,” said Martin Cooney.

ENDS

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