Simeon Brown.
Photo: RNZ / Nick Monro
Health NZ has agreed to binding arbitration to resolve its protracted contract dispute with senior doctors – but the union has yet to commit.
In a letter to both parties on Thursday, Health Minister Simeon Brown gave them until 4pm on Friday to respond to his urgent request to let a third party decide the terms of the contract.
Health New Zealand has issued a statement saying it “welcomes the opportunity” to put patients first and to focus on their needs.
“Association of Salaried Medical Specialists (ASMS) union members are currently balloting on proposed strike action and binding arbitration would remove the threat of strikes and avoid further disruption to patient care.”
ASMS executive director Sarah Dalton said its national executive was meeting on Thursday night night to consider the minister’s letter, and would provide him with a response on Friday.
Earlier on Thursday, ASMS confirmed its members had been voting since Monday on whether they will strike later this month.
If agreed to, the strikes would mark an escalation in industrial action following a 24-hour nationwide strike in May.
ASMS represents 5500 senior hospital doctors and dentists.
According to Health NZ, a rejected offer included salary increases between 3.5 and 11 percent, which were dependent on experience, and incentives to help retention in hard-to-staff areas and specialities.
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