The phlebotomists’ protests were the first in four days of planned strike action by laboratory staff from Wellington to Invercargill working for Awanui Labs, formerly Southern Community Laboratories (SCL).
Apex Union Dunedin delegate Jackie Milford said she and many phlebotomists picketing in the Octagon yesterday were on minimum wage.
"Coronavirus happened. Labs and phlebotomists have been working really hard but we haven’t seen that reflected in our wages."
Contrary to what people might expect, the majority of community blood tests were done by phlebotomists, not doctors or nurses.
"We’re hoping to show people how important lab and phlebotomy is to having a health system, because without testing there is no healthcare."
The phlebotomists would return to work today while other laboratory staff took their turn to strike, an arrangement set to be repeated on Monday and Tuesday.
Their union contract was being renegotiated and they wanted at least a living wage, as well as a better pay scale and better conditions, she said.
Invercargill phlebotomists also picketed outside their workplace in Don St yesterday.Protester Sandra D’arcy said lab workers were on the front line, coping with aggression and violence while dealing with the same diseases and concerns as other medical staff.
"That’s a lot to deal with, and then you’re only given $22 an hour.
"It can’t attract staff to this profession."
In a statement provided earlier this week, Apex Union said it wanted a 23.5% average pay rise for scientists, technicians and phlebotomists.
Further strike action was planned for later this month if bargaining remained unsuccessful.
SCL Group general manager Vicki McKnight said yesterday the organisation respected the right of union members to strike and it was working closely with Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand to manage the impact on health services.
However, it was "disappointed" the union had initiated strike action over four days following only a single day of bargaining. — Additional reporting Ben Tomsett
