DHBNZMonday 30 August 2010, 5:02PM
Media release from DHBNZ
APEX, the union representing medical radiation technologists
(MRTs), is clearly out of touch with the financial realities facing
all DHBs, according DHB spokesperson Phil Cammish.
"DHBs have been responding to APEX's claims at the negotiating
table for over a year. We are not interested in negotiating through
the media," says Phil Cammish.
"However, APEX, by its own calculations, is seeking an investment
from the DHBs that is around 50% higher than that awarded to
employees covered by the National Terms of Settlement
agreement. While we don't necessarily accept their
calculations, no matter what the amount, this is money that DHBs
would have to find from other services this year, and each year
into the future.
"This union cannot be in any doubt that affordability is an issue
for DHBs. We have made it clear that DHBs are willing to work
with the union on the issues that are important to them…but that
these must be managed within what DHBs can afford."
Phil Cammish points out that all health workers make significant
and important contributions to the public health sector - and the
majority of them have been prepared to acknowledge the financial
realities facing DHBs.
"The vast majority of our workforce has accepted that affordability
is a shared issue for the employer and employee. Why can't
the MRTs?"