"Penal rates for unsociable hours, along with safe staff-to-resident ratios, are not luxuries but essentials, protecting both residents’ safety and the wellbeing of the workforce," a statement from the union said.
"Most notably, the employer has staunchly refused to include pay scales in the collective agreement, stating they will only display a single minimum rate for each professional group and continue paying members as per their individual contracts. This contradicts the entire purpose of a collective agreement and is a position NZNO has never faced prior to this bargaining.
"Strike action was not a decision taken lightly but has become a last resort."
One staff member told the Oamaru Mail the strike was about fairness, transparency and health and safety — for both staff and residents.
"In addition, it is for the purpose of annual salary progression and review, penal rates for staff on nights and weekend duties, addressing the imbalance of staff to resident ratios and professional development acknowledgement for registered nurses."
Responding to the Oamaru Mail, a statement from the Observatory Village Care Limited board says it is "very disappointed" some employees have chosen to strike.
The board’s statement says the company has been meeting union and staff delegates for several months because staff involved want to introduce a new collective agreement.
"Despite offers from the company, settlement was not achieved and mediation occurred on July 22."
The company offered pay rises of 7.5% to caregivers and 3.5% to registered and enrolled nurses.
"During the past two years Observatory Village caregivers’ wages have increased 8.1%. During the past three years Observatory Village registered and enrolled nurses’ wages have increased 19.75%."
The board said management would ensure safe staffing levels were maintained during the strike period from 7am, August 26, to 7am, August 27.
