August 29, 2002

Union Challenges Rationale For DHB Job Cuts

The Public Service Association will be challenging the rationale behind Auckland District Health Board’s decision to “review” 70 jobs, PSA national secretary Bryce Fleury said today.

“We are currently trying to identify where the job losses will be but there are indications a significant number of our members’ clerical and administrative support positions have been earmarked. We also understand support positions in the community mental health area will be affected which we find incredulous considering the current crisis in mental health in Auckland.”

Bryce Fleury said it was illusory to cut clerical and administrative support positions in a hospital and not expect it to have an impact on patient care and other staff.

“Any reallocation of work will impact severely on other staff members who are already experiencing long hours. This must inevitably affect patient care.”

Bryce Fleury said the PSA was consulting with the Board and would be making every effort to ensure its members’ continued employment.

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