Unite backs bill for free parking at NHS sites in Scotland
18th February 2009
Unite, the UK’s largest union, is backing a private members'
bill that will restore free parking for patients, visitors and
staff at all NHS sites in Scotland.
Unite members working in the health service generally work long
hours with unpredictable shift patterns and are often required to
travel to their place of work by car. Many NHS staff are low paid
and do not live in areas that are within a sensible or safe public
transport commute to their place of work.
Derek Simpson, Unite joint general secretary, said: “NHS staff
are often low paid and work unsocial hours. Many have to use their
cars to get to work and they should not be penalised because NHS
boards are trying to make money.
“Forcing visitors to pay parking fees to visit their loved ones
is also unfair. Family members often save the NHS money, by
transporting patients to and from hospital.”
The private members' bill is being introduced by Paul Martin,
MSP for Glasgow Springburn and aims to legislate to abolish car
parking charges and ensure reasonable, managed, free car parking
facilities at all NHS sites.
ENDS
For further information contact Liane Groves, Unite press
officer, on 07793 661 657 or Gordon Casey, Unite political officer,
on 07798 531021.
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