Day of action against cuts

Issue 

Day of action against cuts

By Melanie Sjoberg

ADELAIDE—The state executive of the nurses union has endorsed the day of action called for May 24 against the proposed cuts in the Public Sector Audit Review.

"The Audit Commission report is clearly designed to prepare the ground for massive cuts to the state public health system", said Gail Gago, secretary of the Australian Nurses Federation (SA).

Gago argues that the so-called facts in the review have been misconstrued. She said that nurses in SA have already implemented wide-ranging productivity and efficiency reforms.

She said SA has a high utilisation rate of health services because it has the highest unemployment rate, the highest proportion of older people and the lowest average weekly earnings. The review doesn't take social and economic factors into account.

Teachers will strike on May 24 to protest against the dramatic attacks on education contained in the public service audit.

The review recommends cutting the number of teachers in the state by 931 and full-time support staff by 821. It calls for closure or amalgamation of 185 metropolitan schools. This will effect 56% of all schools, with primary schools hardest hit.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.