§ 13. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that many ward sisters in hospitals under his jurisdiction, after 10 years' experience, get no more remuneration than junior sisters of lower standing, and that this is resulting in many experienced sisters leaving the hospital public service and going into private nursing and other relevant spheres; and if he will take steps to increase the pay of ward sisters in hospitals for which he is responsible.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Bernard Braine)The pay structure for nurses, including ward sisters, has been remitted to the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council by the Industrial Court.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister realise that this is part of the shockingly unjust and misguided system which tends to reduce the salary and emoluments and general status of nursing sisters in this noble profession, which should be recognised as such, and will he take steps to rectify it?
§ Mr. BraineNurses had their increase of 7½ per cent. with effect from 1st April last. The Whitley Council is currently considering what further adjustments in salary are required; it met on 9th October, 13th and 27th November, and is to meet again to consider the matter.