Independent Panel Process on NZNO pay talks

District Health Boards have welcomed the report of the Independent Panel, set up after a recommendation from the Prime Minister to help solve the impasse in the pay talks with NZNO nurses and midwives.

DHB spokesperson, Helen Mason, says the Panel provided an opportunity to revisit the key pay equity and workload issues at the heart of the NZNO claims.

“Nurses, healthcare assistants and midwives are highly respected and essential members of the health team. DHBs have always acknowledged the issues raised and have been looking for a pathway to address them.

“The parties have been working hard to find an agreement which would avoid disrupting health services through industrial action.

“We’ll carefully consider the recommendations over the next few days, and DHBs will use the report to develop a revised offer for NZNO next week, which it can put to its members to consider.

“I’d like to thank the Panel members for their work and guidance over the last few weeks.  The process has allowed us to discuss all sides of the issues in a thorough and considered way which is reflected in the recommendations.

“DHBs are committed to finding a settlement. We also have an obligation to ensure patient safety and we’re continuing to work through contingency plans to maintain essential hospital services in case NZNO nurses and midwives reject our offer and go on strike.”