Dismissal of Nurse-attendants

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 100, 29 April 1941, Page 7

Dismissal of Nurse-attendants

AUCKLAND LABOUR UNION’S PROTEST Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, April 28. “Incidents of this character are frowned upon by trade unionists and are likely to sway their judgment during the coming municipal elections,” stated the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Jointers (Auckland) in a letter to the Auckland Hospital Board to-night protesting concerning the dismissal of nurse-attendants from the staff of the Auckland Infirmary. “In view of allegations that these nurses were not given opportunity to defend themselves and that they have been victimised for the defence of trade union principle, this union cannot allow the board’s action to go unchallenged,” continued the letter. “This union is forwarding the matter to tho Auckland Trades Council of the New Zealand Federation of Labour for consideration and intends to move for the holding of a public inquiry into the treatment of these employees by the Auckland Hospital Board.” The letter concluded: “To justify its position, the board would be well advised to ronduct a public inquiry into the matter.”

The chairman (Mr, Allan Moody) moved that the letter be referred to tho complaints committee. Mr. J. Sayegh said he would welcome that action. “There is a lot of feeling in the community regarding the way the matter has been dealt with,” he added. Dr. Hasings said he felt it hod not been thoroughly investigated. Hr. W. A. Bishop said he understood the dismissed nurses had been given an opportunity to come before the board. “That is so,” said the chairman, “but they did not take the opportunity.” The chairman’s motion was adopted.