I am a registered nurse and I want to know:
- What are the values that you would bring to the job if you are elected?
- What priority will you put on safe staffing to make sure there is the right level and mix of staff to ensure best patient outcomes?
- How will you advocate for pay equity for all DHB staff and other health care workers funded by DHB
Justine Pack-England RN
NZNO member and delegate
Candidate Answers
Candidate
Answer
Thank you Justine for your contact and questions. Firstly like yourself I was a Union Delegate for The Prison Officers Association, another essential service like yours. We were locked out and the army brought in. Terms and Conditions were slashed and the media drummed up a culture of fear, when in fact we were conducting an organised go slow on some non essential duties. How often has that happened in NZ? we were locked out for about 4 days.
My point is after that experience my focus shifted more to Employment Relation Studies leaving Corrections in 2004 and going into business. I understand what a Good Employer is Justine and consider I have extensive knowledge of the Employment Relations Act 2000. Furthermore I know the havoc under staffed rosters can create and safety issues. Workplace safety is absolutely paramount, Not just lip service to the word health and safety but an ongoing activity involving all.
Without my team Telebell my business wouldn't exist, I believe the DHB is 6 million in the red from last year and I know someone must be responsible for the public purse but I subscript more to the idea of people before property.
Awaiting response
1. Values
I support equity of access to Pulic Health services for all members of our community irrespective of differences in social,economic,cultural or geograhic factors.
2. Safe staffing for best patient outcomes.
As a Board member I would expect and know I would get evidence of safe staffing levels through direct reports from the CEO, Chief Operating officer Chair of the Finance Risk and Audit Committee and Chair of the Hospital Advisory Committee. When fully operational reports from the Clinical Council will also be useful
3.Pay Equity for DHB staff.
As a general rule and as an individual I favour equal pay for equal work. This is an issue of justice that few would disagree with. I would promote this view at the strategic Board level. Where employment of DHB staff or those funded by the DHB are concerned the CEO who has been appointed by the Board and the management team he has appointed have the responsibility for prudent action in employment and all other operational matters.
David Barry
In the first instance and as I have been promoting I would strondly support and encourage the CEO and staff to continue the very good work they do.
Within the contraints of governance and funding ensure policies encourage staff development through further education,training and promotion opportunities along with equitable remuneration.
My values are the recognition that the best patient outcomes come from a confident and job satisfied workforce.
Encourage an environment that allows for open and informal discussion around workforce issues by staff at all levels.
Cheers
Tena koe Justine
Thank you for raising your questions with me, I will answer them in numerical order.
1. As mentioned in my profile I will bring to the board table; integrity, diligence, knowledge and a sincerity to serve the community.
2. I will ensure that our DHB refers to best practice & evidence based research when making desicions pertaining to staff:consumer ratios.
3. I personally support pay equity for all health care workers however, your strongest advocate will be your union and the support of your community.
Naku noa, Na (Regards)
Honoria Ropiha
