MERAS Midwives strike on Monday 9 August
Maternity, ante and post-natal services will continue to be available at Southern DHB hospitals during planned industrial action by some DHB-employed midwives.
Midwives who are members of the Midwifery Employee Representation & Advisory Service (MERAS) plan to strike for eight hours from 11:00am until 7:00pm on Monday 9 August. This includes some members employed by the Southern DHB, but doesn’t include other Lead Maternity Carers, such as community LMC midwives, who will continue to provide care and carry out duties as usual.
“Southern DHB has been planning for this strike with the safety of women and babies as our priority. Appropriate support and rostering is in place to minimise disruption as much as possible, and to ensure women, babies and their whanau are supported and cared for in our hospitals during this period,” says Jane Wilson, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Southern DHB.
New or expectant mothers who have any questions or concerns should contact their lead maternity provider in the first instance or consult their GP. As is always the case, in emergencies people should dial 111.
Information for Mothers, Families and Whānau
Who do I call if I have concerns during the strike? During the strike period, if you have any concerns contact your lead maternity carer (LMC) (midwife or obstetrician) or your GP. If you are in labour, contact your LMC or follow the advice you have been given.
Do I still go to my appointment?
Unless you have been contacted and told otherwise, then yes, you should attend any regularly scheduled appointment, treatment or clinic.
What if I go into labour during the strike?
Contact your LMC or follow advice you have already been provided. As always, in an emergency call 111.
What if I am in hospital during the strike?
Southern DHB has been planning for this strike with the safety of our safety of women and babies as our priority. Appropriate support and rostering is in place to ensure patients are supported and cared for in hospital.