Metlifecare pay deal praised by unions

A new collective agreement at Metlifecare is being hailed by staff as setting a new standard for pay and conditions in the aged care sector.

The agreement, signed this month between Metlifecare and the Service and Food Workers Union and NZ Nurses Organisation delivers an average pay rise of 7.7% to the workforce.

Union advocate Alastair Duncan says Metlifecare has taken a lead in the sector at a time when some other employers are only willing to "pass on" government funding of less than 1%.

"Metlifecare board and management have listened to their workforce. Their investment in staff sets a new and impressive benchmark. This is a ground breaking agreement that truly values the workforce."

Pay rate for most carers will increase by 12 to 14% with nursing and other occupational groups also receiving significant increases.

Alastair Duncan says the agreement represents an important step in the journey towards true equal pay in the sector.

"Rather than await the outcome of the ground-breaking Kristine Bartlett equal pay case, Metlifecare has taken a first step towards truly acknowledging the contribution of its staff.

"This is a win-win situation for staff, management and shareholders. At a time of improved returns and growth Metlifecare has shown it does care.

"SFWU and NZNO now want other employers to make similar investments in their staff."

Metlifecare operates 25 retirement villages and 9 care facilities across New Zealand, employing over 1000 staff.