ANMF Demand Immediate Payment of N-95 Mask Allowance
19 September 2024
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF Tasmanian Branch) is calling on the Tasmanian Government to urgently address the delayed payments owed to nurses and midwives for their N95 mask allowance, which has been in effect since December 2023.
ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary Emily Shepherd said despite the agreement being registered nearly 10 months ago, the majority of members have yet to receive back pay for the times they have worn N95 masks during most of this period.
“While our members have been patient and understanding regarding initial delays, the situation has now become untenable,” Ms Shepherd said.
“To exacerbate the frustration, we have learned that managers are being instructed to conduct audits to identify eligible staff for this payment, despite our members clearly noting their mask usage on timesheets that have already been approved by their managers.
“It is extremely disappointing and frustrating to our members that we have to fight on their behalf just to get their entitlements paid, despite this being part of their industrial agreement registered just under 12 months ago.
“This is adding salt to the wound and contributing to feelings of being undervalued and low morale among our members.”
Ms Shepherd said nurses and midwives are facing significant challenges, including staffing shortages and overwhelming workloads.
“Many have had to wear N95 masks for entire shifts, long after the general community has moved on from such precautions. Yet, they find themselves in a position where their hard won entitlements are still not paid.
Ms Shepherd said the ANMF has formally written to the Department, demanding that back payments be issued in full within the next 14 days.
“Should this issue not be resolved during this timeframe, we will have no choice but to lodge a dispute with the Tasmanian Industrial Commission.
“Our members deserve better recognition for their commitment and hard work during challenging times. We urge the Government to resolve this matter swiftly and honour the agreement made nearly a year ago.”
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Media contact:
Emily Shepherd, ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary
Mobile: 0400 884 021
Email: Emily.Shepherd@anmftas.org.au