Under the terms of the implementation plan “Strategic review of terms and conditions for nursing and AHP employed under AfC”, shared with the RCN at the beginning of the year, the pay claim settlement was due by the end of quarter two (June). This clearly hasn’t happened.
Julie Lewers, RCN Senior Regional Officer says: “Not only has this deadline been and gone but there is no will from the States to discuss this with us any further. We have made our feelings on the 5% offer crystal clear and yet the matter appears to be closed. It is total deadlock. We must start meaningful negotiations soon, this situation is just causing our members to become more agitated as they see the States dragging their feet.”
RCN members have been on the streets raising awareness of their situation and seeking signature to a petition. So far their online petition stands at 3118 with a further 1900 gathered in person.
Kenny Lloyd, RCN Convenor, says: “The response from the public has been overwhelming. They have been so warm and positive, we absolutely know they are behind us on this. If they can see the value we bring, why can’t those that hold the purse strings?”
Some of the comments from members of the public in the petition say:
- “Nursing pay in Guernsey does not reflect the responsibility that nurses take and is not comparable with other states employees.”
- “Equal pay is a right not a gift. Pay nurses fairly and help retain & recruit nurses to deliver care patients need.”
- “Healthcare workers matter. If you under value your staff you destroy goodwill.”
- “I'm signing because nurses need a better deal and to be treated fairly. Their contribution to society needs to be adequately recognised.
