SA nurses take action over staffing levels

ABC, August 17, 2010 South Australian nurses and midwives are taking industrial action after rejecting part of the State Government's offer in enterprise bargaining negotiations. Nursing and Midwifery Federation CEO Elizabeth Dabars says a pay rise offer of up to 15 per cent over three years has been accepted but a dispute over staffing is unresolved. She says nurses will shut down a computer system used to calculate staffing levels. "The response to the claim fails to address staffing levels and skills mix and professional development, all of which are absolutely critical to ensure there is safe levels of care for patients," she said. ... SA