Michael Ferguson,Minister for Health
Union bosses are continuing to use patients as pawns in their industrial action, cancelling surgeries yesterday and today at the Mersey Community Hospital.
It is completely unacceptable that unions, with the support of Labor, would hurt patients in this way.
I am advised the action has already affected 10 patients, including people awaiting cataract, dental and orthopaedic surgeries. Because of this industrial action, patients get put back onto the waiting list.
These latest cancellations are despite the Government's latest offer and continued attempts to negotiate in good faith.
I call on the unions to step down this irresponsible campaign and it is up to them now to come back to the table with a counter offer.
We believe our hardworking public servants deserve a pay rise, but it must be fair and affordable for Tasmanian taxpayers.
Labor needs to immediately condemn this harmful action that is impacting patients, and the union needs to negotiate in good faith and stop playing dangerous games.
