Employers walk out of Hospital Mediation talks

Employer representatives from the District Health Boards and Contract companies have walked out of mediation this evening says the Service and Food Workers Union.

Union spokesperson Alastair Duncan says delegates were stunned at the move and repeatedly asked the employers to reconsider their position and continue negotiations.

"Some signs of progress were made and the union representatives had agreed to work over the weekend in the hope of getting a settlement.

"Our public hospitals are on the edge of major industrial action involving lockouts and action across the country. It is irresponsible of any employer to walk out of mediation let alone employers in the public hospital system.

"The walkout can only inflame a delicate situation."

"If we can't talk with the employers then the only solution may be prolonged industrial action."

The union has contacted the Minister of Health's office to express members' concern.

The mediation was a last ditch attempt to settle a nine month dispute involving 2500 cleaners, kitchen staff and orderlies seeking a national agreement (MECA) and an end to low pay.

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