Watershed Pay Deal Recognises True Value of Nurses

The pay settlement offered to the New Zealand Nurses Organisation recognised the true value of nurses in the 21st century and would be welcomed by all New Zealanders, Council of Trade Unions president Ross Wilson said today.A proposed settlement has been reached between NZNO and the country's 21 district health boards.

"NZNO, the Government, unions and the public who supported the Fair Pay campaign can feel satisfied that a foundation has been laid for a better health system, as it is the professional staff that make the system work," Ross Wilson said.

"The increased salaries recognise that the nursing profession has changed dramatically over the past few decades and that nurses and midwives play a vital role in a complex environment."

It was to be hoped that young people would once again see nursing as a great profession to get in to.

"The nurses, through their union, presented the Government with the solutions to a neglected profession and the Government has delivered with this settlement," Ross Wilson said.

"The CTU looks forward to working with NZNO and other health unions to continue the rebuilding of conditions, morale and excellence in the health sector."