TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

District Health Boards remain positive that mediation will help solve the impasses in pay talks with midwives and prevent a threatened series of two-hour strikes each day from 22 November to 5 December.

DHB spokesperson Jim Green says midwives covered by the union MERAS have been offered the same pay deal as midwives covered by the NZNO.

“The offer they’ve turned down is 9% over the next 18 months plus two pay step increases and a lump sum payment.

“That’s a very good offer and the same as other midwives employed by DHBs.”

Mr Green says DHBs will continue trying to settle these negotiations and expect mediation will help find a way forward and prevent industrial action.

“We respect the important role of Midwives while also recognising that an excellent offer has already been made. We are keen to talk further with the union.” says Mr Green.

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