11 September 2006

Hodgson calls for resolution on radiographers strike

Health Minister Pete Hodgson has urged radiographers and the management of seven district health boards to end their employment dispute as quickly as possible.

Radiographers working in Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, Hutt Valley, Canterbury, Otago and Southland district health boards will go on strike at 7 am tomorrow.

"I am saddened that the DHBs and radiographers' union have been unable to avert strike action," Pete Hodgson said. "The strike will have a significant effect on many of our public hospitals with my own local hospital in Dunedin among them.

"I urge both sides to get back to the negotiating table as quickly as possible and resolve their differences in the best interest of the public."

Pete Hodgson said reforms introduced by the Labour-led government meant that unions and DHBs are obligated to provide life-preserving services in the event of a strike and that arrangements are in place to make sure patients needing urgent care can be treated.

The Minister will get updates on hospital performance throughout the strike to ensure all that can be done to mitigate the effects of the strike is being done.

"DHBs have comprehensive plans in place to ensure quality of care for their patients. Health professionals in our hospitals and in general practice will be very busy over the next few days and I'd like to thank them in advance for their efforts."

ENDS

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