MENTAL health nurses used their breaks to protest a 0.3 per cent wage rise proposal for public servants, arguing it was an "absolute insult" to health workers on the front lines of a global pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
More than a dozen nurses and public supporters chanted and rallied outside the Mater Mental Health Centre in Waratah on Thursday in opposition to the state governnment's wage freeze.
Read more: The Herald's Opinion
Local NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA) members are devastated by the 0.3% wage rise on offer from the NSW Industrial Relations Commission and want their annual 2.5% to be honoured by the Berejiklian Government.
NSW Nurses and Midwives Association Waratah branch delegate Louise Haskins said members were offering to have Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Treasurer Dominic Perrotet and Minister for Health Brad Hazzard shadow them for an 18-hour overtime shift.
"After relying on nurses through COVID-19, its clear the Premier does not value the work we do," Ms Haskins said.
"We have all selflessly put our own safety at risk and are now expected to do more for less? We deserve more support from this government."
The branch's vice president, Emily Logan, said the 0.3 per cent rise in place of a 2.5 per cent agreement was a slap in the face.
"This is an absolute insult after what we have endured this year," she said.
"We are currently facing a global health pandemic. Every day we are confronted with the harsh reality we could be infected with COVID-19 and be taking it home to our family and loved ones."
While you're with us, did you know the Newcastle Herald offers breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up to date with all the local news - sign up here
IN THE NEWS:
Matt Carr
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
