A series of rolling strikes that began this week will impact medical laboratories and collection centres throughout the country as APEX union members seek a pay increase at least in line with inflation.
Phlebotomists employed at Invercargill’s Awanui Labs picketed outside their workplace in the wind and rain on Wednesday morning, seeking a wage increase that has not been seen in three years.
Union representative Hunter Barnfather said the laboratory employees felt they were not valued appropriately for their work and qualifications.
"In order to do this job and stay in the job, we have to become qualified. We spend a year to a year and a-half as phlebotomists doing that study. Even after that we have to do further education each year in order to keep our practicing certificate."
"We are more than just minimum wage."
They said their previous contract, signed around three years ago, had not kept up with inflation.
Phlebotomist Sandra D’arcy said lab staff were working on the front line, coping with aggressive and violent people and 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."
A protester who did not want to be named said their teenage son earned more money working at a local supermarket.
Mr Barnfather said there were negotiations between Awanui and APEX union the morning of the strike, with Awanui offering a 5% pay rise across the board.
"This is well below what was originally put forward by APEX, which was an average of 23%," they said.
"It feels like a slap to the face ..."
APEX represents more than 80% of the workforce who are covered by the collective agreement.
An APEX spokesperson said further strike action for late July was planned if bargaining remained unsuccessful.
Phlebotomists will strike again on Monday, with a further withdrawal of laboratory services the following day.
