Collective Processes Provide Best Opportunity To Address Conditions in Aged Care

“Collective bargaining provides the best opportunity and framework for addressing working conditions and chronic low wages in the aged care sector,” Council of Trade Unions secretary Carol Beaumont said today.

“Nobody disagrees that we need to see urgent change in the appalling wage rates, high turnover, substandard training and lack of quality care schemes in aged care.“

“To date this hasn’t happened, and the Budget announcement is an excellent opportunity to address the problems in this sector in a meaningful and sustained way.”

“The funding announcement in Budget 2007 provides a sound base for the tripartite (District Health Boards, aged care providers and unions) work which will continue over the next few years to improve training and wages for workers, and standards of care for our older people.”

“Unions are pleased to be working with DHBs and providers to improve standards and employment conditions.  These changes will benefit workers, employers and older people.”

“It's very disappointing to see some political parties complaining about this funding mechanism today, when this is the most significant move we have seen to date to address the crisis in aged care,” Beaumont said.

“This funding delivery mechanism is entirely lawful and consistent with international law and the Employment Relations Act, which has as one of its objectives the promotion of collective bargaining.”