Over 1000 midwives to go on strike asking for better pay

November 6, 2018

A petition is being handed over to parliament carrying more than 13,000 signatures.

Over 1000 midwives employed by District Health Boards have voted to reject a pay offer and go on strike.

A statement released by the midwives union, MERAS, says that 90 per cent of its members employed by DHBs voted in favour of the strikes.

Midwives will be giving notice from tomorrow of two-hour work stoppages every day on every shift over a two-week period, effective 22 November to 5 December.

Industrial Co-leader Jill Ovens says the idea is to maximise disruption for the DHBs while minimising the effect on women and their babies.

Ms Ovens says members rejected the offer because the DHBs are refusing to recognise midwives' skills and responsibilities, a key claim for midwives since negotiations started more than a year ago.

"Midwives gained recognition as an autonomous profession in 1990, nearly 30 years ago," says Ms Ovens.

"They have a high level of responsibility, study for a four-year direct-entry degree, and their scope of practice includes a high level of clinical decision-making."

According to MERAS, the DHBs rejected their proposal for a further percentage to recognise the "midwives' difference". They also reportedly rejected a "retention allowance" to address the pressing midwifery shortage.

Laura Cox will be one of many marching today on Parliament demanding better pay and conditions for midwives.

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