Calvary Bruce Hospital cleaners escalate their fight for fair pay with the introduction of cleaning bans and a protest outside the hospital.

Starting today there will be rolling one-hour bans on emptying bins and the replacing and refilling of toilet paper and hand towels.

Last Monday, cleaners protested in response to the insulting offer of 5-cent wage increase from the hospital’s cleaning contractor, Compass Medirest.

On Friday, the frontline workers postponed industrial action after the company agreed to meet with them and present a fairer offer.

However, Compass Medirest has said they will only backpay cleaners once the agreement is registered.

After three years without a pay rise, the cleaners cannot afford to wait the many months registration can often take.

“This process has made us feel disrespected, humiliated, and undervalued by our employer. Stop playing with our emotions and don’t take us for granted,” said hospital cleaner, Sonam Choden.

Lyndal Ryan, United Workers Union Director of Property Services said: “It isn’t like the contractor has done badly during the pandemic. Cleaning companies have done a roaring trade and Calvary’s cleaning contractor is no exception. They are part of a multinational company and can afford to deliver both the pay rise and back pay now.

“Whist the company has shown contempt for its workforce the support from the general public, nurses and other hospital staff has been amazing. The community turned out for the frontline workers when they walked off because they understand the value of cleaners.

“This waiting game must end. 2020 has been a year of records. Compass Medirest has already won the record for most insulting pay offer. They don’t need to set another one.”