Fulford Radiology responds to APEX's proposed strike action

Dr.Flora Gilkison, Chair of Fulford Radiology said Fulford Radiology is disappointed about the intended strike action of its APEX affiliated staff members.

Dr Gilkison said, “We are disappointed our APEX members have opted to strike for a second time. We have been trying to resolve their concerns over the past few months and take the health and safety of our MRTs very seriously, and very much value the work they do.”

In response to APEX’s claims, Fulford Radiology has provided several health and safety solutions to alleviate APEX’s concerns - these have all been declined by APEX.

Dr Gilkison said, “Contrary to APEX’s claims, Fulford Radiology staff always receive a nine-hour break during a normal week. We have also offered to introduce a shift roster and a paid nine-hour break at the end of the weekend to address health and safety concerns.”

Fulford Radiology has also offered a 1% pay increase plus a one-off payment to be able to change the way an on call allowance is paid. This would allow Fulford to employ more MRTs to assist with current demand. However, APEX has also declined this offer.

Dr Gilkison said, “Currently employees who work on call are paid an availability allowance and when they are called in to work, they are paid (in addition to their salary and the allowance) further payments per patient.”

“Fulford Radiology has always offered competitive pay increases and our MRTs are paid significantly more than they would be on the MECA working for other DHBs in New Zealand, and we feel this is a reflection of the way we value them,” she said.

Dr Gilkison said, “I would like to reassure people that Fulford Radiology services will not be affected and patient safety is not at risk during the partial withdrawal of labour.”

ENDS

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