MRT Industrial Action Withdrawn

Northland DHB has received notification from APEX (Association of Professional and Executive Employees) that planned industrial action by medical radiation technologists (radiographers) has been withdrawn.

The strike action was due to commence on 8am Thursday 8 April to 8am Saturday 10 April and would have caused delays at Northland hospitals.  Northland DHB had been warning people that due to industrial action, potential delays in its emergency department could occur and as part of its contingency planning it has rescheduled some elective surgery, outpatient appointments and radiological investigations.

Clinical Services general manager, Dr Nick Chamberlain says although contingency planning was well underway to minimise disruption to patients, it was great news to hear that strike notice had been withdrawn by the union.

"We would like to thank those patients we contacted to reschedule their appointments and radiological investigations in preparation of the strike action.  Their understanding of our situation and potential delays meant - if the strike had gone ahead - we could ensure patient safety in our hospitals," said Dr Chamberlain.

"We will now be ramping up our outpatient and surgical services to get our hospitals back to normal operating capacity."

Pay negotiations remains ongoing between union members and District Health Boards New Zealand (DHBNZ).

-ENDS-

Further information contact:
Fleur King
Public Relations Manager
Ph: 09 430 4101 extn 3315