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Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume VII, Issue 2, 1 April 1914, Page 74

Referring to the leading article from the "Dominion," reprinted m our last issue, some clauses m it have been brought to mind by recent actions of two Hospital Boards m regard to their Matrons. One clause is that m which it is suggested that the promotion and transfer of nurses from one district or institution to another, should be vested m a Central Authority. Some appeal against the ill-considered, and sometimes unjust actions of Hospital Committees is certainly needed by those who are under their power. These people frequently have little knowledge of what Hospital management means, or of the large amount of work, especially m country districts, where help is difficult to obtain, their Matrons have to undertake and do undertake cheerfully and devotedly. The work includes frequently such unaccustomed duties as cooking and washing, m addition to the care of the patients. Quite recently a Matron whose staff included no trained nurse, but whose most senior help was only a 2 year's pupil nurse, after some strenuous Aveeks of nursing work (complicated by family trouble), requested a few, weeks leave without pay, being able to provide a friend as locum tenens.

In refusing this leave, opportunity was taken by the Committee to say that owing to her bad health, constant need of help, they would be willing to accept her resignation, and release her from duty at once. The Matron asked if there was any dissatisfaction with her work and was told, emphatically; No. The sole reason was her health. Her health was quite as usual, and during two years she had only twice been off duty for a day, the fact being that she was overworked. However, rather than dispute the matter the Matron sent her resignation m and left m a few days ; the Board paying her salary for about 5 weeks. Had she wished to stay there is no doubt the Committee couid not have dismissed her without incurring the risk of an action for wrongful dismissal. The other instance was the dismissal of a Matron at short notice. She was advised to take action against the Committee ; but the pride of a refined woman would not allow her to take the steps which would bring her into so much publicity. Such instances show the unfair treatment meted out to women, who m spite of latter day movements do not care to fight for themselves, and point out that still they need protection.