The DHS has not changed its negotiating position, nor has it made us an offer. However, there have been discussions over non-salary elements of our claims.

We have made it clear that members will not accept anything less than a package equivalent to nurses including an operative date of 1 October 2007. As everyone would realise, it is close to 18 months since the last salary increase, meanwhile the cost of living, petrol prices and interest rates continue to increase. The delays in these negotiations have been entirely the fault of the government/DHS and it is unacceptable that members are expected to pay for their stalling.

Discussions are to continue under the auspices of the AIRC on Monday 25 February 2008.

A special meeting of the Branch Committee of Management and the EBA Negotiating Committee will be held tonight (Thursday 21 February 2008) to discuss strategies to resolve the impasse in negotiations should Monday’s discussions fail.

As foreshadowed by the resolution of the meeting of members at the Alfred last Friday, this is likely to involve a 48 hour walkout from all departments in all major metropolitan hospitals, and Bendigo, Goulburn Valley, Echuca and Cobram Hospitals, and associated community and rehabilitation services, unless we receive an acceptable offer from the government/DHS.

*****

Fighting Fund: Thanks to those members from sites not involved in the protected industrial action, or who remained at work as part of the ‘skeleton’ staff during the recent strikes, who have contributed to the MSAV/VPA Fighting Fund. Your contribution is much appreciated. The Fund will be used for campaigning expenses including buses, T Shirts and media expenses.

Like to contribute? Ring the office to pay by credit card, OR pay by Electronic Funds Transfer to MSAV at Commonwealth Bank RMIT BSB: 063 008  Account No: 10034645 Ref: FF followed by your membership number  (eg FF1234) OR BPay  MSAV Biller Code: 666339 Reference: Your MSAV or VPA  membership number