Health unions prepare for action

BY SUSAN AUSTIN

BRISBANE — Twelve health unions, led by the Queensland Nurses Union,
are planning to step up industrial action in response to Queensland Health's
refusal to budge in negotiations on a new enterprise agreement.

Work bans on non-clinical duties, like completing daily statistics and
filling in vehicle log books began in many workplaces on May 29. Union
members are also being encouraged to “work to rule” by taking all breaks
and other entitlements.

The previous enterprise agreement expired on March 31 but, despite months
of five-day-a-week negotiations, Queensland Health is still offering only
a 9% pay increase over three years. Queensland Health now says it will
refuse to backdate the pay rise to March 31 and that the cost of implementing
other matters negotiated into the new agreement will come out of the 9%
pay offer.

Health workers believe the pay rise on offer is inadequate. If the federal
government's budget inflation forecast of 5.75% proves accurate, a 9% rise
would mean a reduction in real pay over three years.

The 12 unions, which represent nurses, clerical workers, orderlies and
maintenance personnel, are demanding 6% per year and better child-care
facilities, a commitment to International Labour Organisation conventions,
expansion of allowances and restrictions on contracting out.

Local campaign committees are now active in all Queensland Health workplaces
and it is likely that the unions' proposal for a July 6 day of action,
including a one-hour strike, will be accepted by members.

From GLW issue 409