Hundreds of public sector workers angered by the Queensland Government’s 3.25 per cent pay offer plan to take their protest to Brisbane tomorrow.
LHMU state secretary Gary Bulloch said the workers found the Government’s offer an “insult”.
Mr Bulloch said the State Government’s wage increase did not match inflation or the consumer price index (CPI) increase of 5.1 per cent.
He said with petrol increases, interest rates up and rents on the rise, public workers were doing it rough.
“Paramedics are working a hell of a lot of overtime … Their family life is non-existent,” he said.
“Teachers’ aides are performing practical work at home and putting in additional time at schools to make sure the kids come first.”
Many of the protesters are members of the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union (LHMU) and represent a range of professions including teacher aides, dentists, radiographers and paramedics.
Mr Bulloch said the workers could walk out tomorrow and work in private industries, and they would be better paid.
“Parliamentarians, judges and director generals haven’t had to suffer 3.25 per cent.
“The Government is not keeping up with CPI.”
Mr Bulloch said paramedics wanted a 6 per cent pay rise per year and teacher aides would need an offer close to five per cent.
Several other unions will also participate in the protest at Carindale in Brisbane’s inner-south.
Their protest will begin at 12.45pm (AEST) outside Community Cabinet, Belmont State School.
– AAP