Almost a month after the original request, representatives from the Health Services Union (HSU) are scheduled to meet with embattled New South Wales Premier, Mike Baird.
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On Wednesday HSU secretary Gerard Hayes and Ambulance Division HSU state councillor, Steve Frazer, are set to discuss the government’s controversial decision to cut the death and disability insurance of Paramedics to levels well below those afforded to Police.
Around 80 off-duty paramedics from around the state are set to gather in Sydney prior to the meeting, and will be briefed afterwards.
Until then Singleton Paramedics will continue the high profile liquid chalk campaign to raise public awareness.
The Baird government’s decision to significantly cut the level of cover afforded to these trusted emergency workers came into effect on August 20, sparking the statewide protest.
Before the changes a 20-year-old paramedic permanently injured on the job, and unable to work in any occupation again, would have received a payout of $699,635.
Under the new arrangements this figure stands at $123,487 for a maximum of two years. However, a police officer facing the same scenario would receive $432,127.
Local union representative Mick Callinan, who is based in Muswellbrook, uses the word “gobsmacked” to describe the impact of the cuts.
“At the scene of a serious motor vehicle accident, you will find paramedics in vehicles treating patients, firies with their hoses, and police officers directing traffic,” he explains.
“So why are we the least covered, when we are in the direct line of fire,” he says.
Although Mr Callinan says they have been buoyed by the support of the community, and local politicians.
“But we really need this to continue so please keep emailing your local members, and other politicians,” he implores.
“We also need people to sign our petition.”
The NSW Paramedic Death and Disability Award was introduced in 2008 to provide paramedics and their families financial protection in the case of serious injury or death.