Lancashire Hospitals boss says it's becoming 'more difficult' to deal with strikes
The BMA union has organised more walkouts starting this morning
The Chief Executive of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals says he's concerned about the impact strikes are having on patients and staff as the BMA Union begins another walkout, just days after the biggest in in history.
The British Medical Association is refusing a pay increase of 6% of it's members and insist they want a 'pay restoration' saying they're valued around 26% less than they were in 2010.
The Government has insisted they are not prepared to negotiate any further and the 6% increase is the best offer they'll make this year at least.
Kevin McGee worries what strikes over the winter would mean for staff and patients.
He says:
"It's been very very difficult indeed and it's becoming more difficult with each subsequent strike. The strikes may be for 3,4 or even 5 days in duration but we spend many more days making sure all our rotas are straight beforehand and making sure we have the hospital safe and covered.
"Each strike creates significant disruption. We're having to delay or cancel lots of routine work for outpatient care and day-case activity.
"I can really see it starting to impact on staff who are very tired and working incredibly hard to try and manage these strikes. It's a really difficult situation. My hope is that it gets resolved quickly, unfortunately, I can't see that happening.
A statement on the BMA's website says:
"Our consultant members have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.
"The Government’s derisory pay uplift of just under 6% is an insult to consultants. The BMA is calling for NHS consultant doctors in England to take strike action for 48 hours from 7am on Thursday 20 July to 7am on Saturday 22 July.