A rolling stop work action took place yesterday at Tweed Hospital by Health Services Union (HSU) members following the alleged unfair treatment of a senior security staff member.
According to HSU the security officer, who managed the security at the hospital, received a back injury while restraining a violent patient. They say the officer has not been provided with alternative employment at the hospital and is now facing termination.
HSU NSW Secretary Gerard Hayes today slammed hospital management for their pig-headed approach to the security officer’s work future.
‘This worker has vast experience, and is a genuine asset to the hospital.
‘There are many ways this experience could be used within the hospital environment, especially in teaching younger staff and advising on security issues.
‘Instead of casing him aside, hospital management should be falling over themselves to make sure he stays at Tweed and continues to contribute to the safety of both staff and patients.’
Mr Hayes said it was ironic that the day before HSU members voted on industrial action over this issue, NNSWLHD CEO Wayne Jones issued a memo to all health workers in the region stating his commitment to providing meaningful employment to people with disability.
‘Earlier this week the CEO wrote to staff inviting them to pause and ask themselves ‘how can I promote the participation of people with disability in my workplace?
‘But if the Local Health District can’t find a place for an outstanding worker because he received an injury while doing his job, then perhaps the CEO needs to pause and ask himself the same question.
‘This is not just a matter of fairness and decency – it’s common sense. Good workers are too important to lose.’
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