ACT public sector workers have taken strike action today, with their unions calling on the Barr Labor Government to deliver a better pay offer or face more industrial action.
The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) says its members are striking for a pay offer that keeps up with the cost of living and one that recognises the vital work they do.
ACTPS workers from across the service, including The Canberra Hospital, North Canberra Hospital, University of Canberra Hospital, Alexander Machonachie Centre, Bimberi Youth Justice Centre and Housing ACT are taking industrial action today after voting to strike.
Bargaining in the ACT public service has been under way for more than a year with the CPSU saying the Barr Government has stretched this out too long.
Public sector workers are striking in response to the government's offer of 3% a year over three years. More than 63% of public servants on the core Enterprise Agreement voted against the pay deal, a record in ACTPS bargaining history.
The CPSU is calling on the Barr Government to come to the table with a pay offer for public sector workers that keeps up with the cost of living or face further industrial action.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO REBECCA FAWCETT, CPSU NATIONAL SECRETARY
"ACT Government public sector workers are striking today because they have had enough.
"CPSU members are frustrated and want this Barr Government to show ACT public sector workers the respect they deserve and come to the table with a pay offer that keeps up with the cost of living.
"These workers go above and beyond every day to deliver the services Canberrans rely on. It is high time the ACT Government rewarded them with a decent pay offer.
"We are coming together - ACT public sector workers in health, administration and corrections, and members from across the union movement - to say with one voice to the Barr Government: do better."
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO MADDY NORTHAM, CPSU REGIONAL SECRETARY
"Public sector workers across the Territory, from The Canberra Hospital to HousingACT and the AMC are sending a crystal-clear message to the Barr Labor Government: your pay offer is not good enough.
"These public sector workers have been pushed to the limit. They are sick and tired of this government turning a blind eye to what they need and the pay they deserve.
"CPSU members simply want fair pay for a fair day's work. When you are out there day in, day out protecting, supporting and, at times, nurturing Territorians, the very least this government can do is pay you properly."
