News Flash

GOVERNMENT FAILS TO ADDRESS DENTISTS' CONCERNS

The South Australian Government has today refused to take steps to address recruitment and retention concerns of Public Sector Dentists.

While waiting for formal advice from the Department of Health the PSA was shocked to receive a Media Release issued by the Minister for Industrial Relations, Michael Wright advising that there would be no change to the previously rejected Government offer to Dentists.

Rather than meet and negotiate with the PSA the Minister's Press Release advised of no further increase and that the Government was prepared to seek the intervention of the Industrial Relations Commission.

A meeting of PSA members in SADS will be held early next week to consider the situation, including the nature of any future campaign. Meeting details will be subsequently advised after consultation with Worksite Representatives.

Ms McMahon said “It is vital for the community that the SA Dental Service have the capacity to recruit and retain staff. The current pay rates and conditions fail to recognise that even SADS management have previously supported the need for improvements.”

“Community oral health can only be effectively addressed by the Government's willingness to genuinely deal with this problem” said Ms McMahon.

If you have any queries please contact:
Ian D Peak, Acting Assistant Chief Industrial Officer on 8205 3294 or ian@cpsu.asn.au

PSA WORKING FOR YOU

18 July 2007