United Voice News
Pressure on Brumby mounts, weary ambos ready to snap
Paramedics say there is a strong likelihood Victoria’s ambulance service could still face serious disruption unless Premier Brumby supports proper rest breaks to combat on-the-job fatigue.
The ambulance union says the decision at Fair Work Australia this morning declaring paramedics’ planned strike illegal has only inflamed their anger.
“Paramedics are more determined than ever to win longer rest breaks to combat fatigue and secure fair wages,” said Ambulance Employees Australia State Secretary Steve McGhie.
“Countless paramedics have told me that they will do whatever is necessary to win a safer ambulance service for all Victorians.”
“Paramedics are so angry and frustrated by Premier Brumby they are ready to snap.”
“One month ago an AEC ballot found 94 percent support for strike action. If anything, they are even more united and determined now.”
“The Brumby government has tried to wear paramedics down with 15 months of negotiations and more than 40 meetings.”
“Meanwhile paramedics have produced mountains of evidence on how extreme fatigue is putting in danger both their own lives and those of their patients, and yet still Premier Brumby and Daniel Andrews refuse to support longer rest breaks. “
“A leaked email shows the Brumby government has even ignored its own advice that longer rest breaks to combat fatigue are justified.”
“Whether paramedics do commence further action is entirely up to you, Premier Brumby.”
“You can either deal with fatigue and provide Victorians with a safer ambulance service or face the consequences.”
Mr McGhie defended the proposed strike action that had been scheduled for tomorrow.
“The only real threat to the health and welfare of patients right now is paramedic fatigue.”
“Victorian ambos face extreme workloads. Many work more than 15 hours straight, often without meal breaks, and then need to be back working eight hours later.”
“Our survey found many paramedics get just five hours sleep between shifts and are falling asleep driving and making clinical errors because of this relentless workload and lack of sleep between shifts.”
Senior Deputy President Les Kaufman ordered parties to commence a 21 day period of conciliation.
Paramedics and Ambulance Victoria will resume negotiations this afternoon at 2pm.
Only Victorian and WA paramedics still have eight hour minimum breaks.
More than 2500 Victorians have now signed an online petition in support of longer rest breaks to combat fatigue at www.responsetime.org.au
