Medical radiation technologistsMonday 30 August 2010, 3:13PM
Media release from medical radiation technologists
Medical radiation technologists' (MRTs) counter offer will cost
DHBs an additional 1% on the total DHB MRT budget, not the
"considerable expense" they are claiming, according to their
union.
In response to DHB spokesperson Phil Cammish's comment that the
MRT's counter offer would add a "considerable expense to add back
into the total costs", the Association of Professionals and
Executive Employees (APEX) which represents MRTs, has revealed that
the cost amounts to as little as 1% of the total DHB budget for
Medical Radiation Technologists.
MRTs are not in disagreement with the employers over a pay offer
of 1 per cent now and a further 1 per cent in October. However,
there are several issues which are still under contention and are
included in the counter offer which is currently with DHBs. The
offer needs to be settled or a nationwide strike will occur on
September 7.
"These facts contrast with DHBs claim that the cost is a
considerable expense. Their comments make MRTs out to be greedy
which is clearly not the case given the selfless role their job
entails on a daily basis," Slater says.
Other issues still under contention in the agreement include time
in lieu for members undertaking professional development in their
own time. Slater says, contrary to some reports, time in lieu for
professional development is not a cost to DHBs because MRTs cover
their colleagues when they take time in lieu - for no more
pay. "DHBs rarely if ever get locum cover for absent MRTs but
rely on the remaining staff who cover," Slater says.
A nationwide 24 hour strike is scheduled Tuesday 7 September for
MRTs, pending a resolution of the dispute.