Safety fear for nurses

HEALTH Minister Steve Miles has been warned of a potential security scare for Gold Coast nurses unable to find parking during the Commonwealth Games.

The Bulletin yesterday revealed Gold Coast University Hospital staffers are being encouraged to salary sacrifice to cover the cost of using an onsite private parking facility once two-hour parking is introduced in the area on Friday.

Opposition health spokesperson and Coast MP Ros Bates immediately sent a letter to Mr Miles asking for an update on options which may include a shuttle service from Harbour Town shopping centre.

“I’m concerned about the safety of GCUH staff, many of them women and the impact that these arrangements may have on patient care,” she wrote.

Mr Miles said Gold Coast Health and representatives from Get Set for the Games had been talking to staff about parking options and other impacts.

“The Queensland Government and Gold Coast Health continue to encourage staff to voice any concerns they have. I understand further discussions are planned,” he said.

“The Secure Parking facility on-site at Gold Coast University Hospital has a dedicated staff car park in addition to a public car park.

“I’m advised there are still hundreds of staff car parks still available in this facility.”

The Health Minister said staff were being offered a discount on the daily rate through salary sacrifice or casual recharge card for less than $8 a day.

“We have also significantly increased public transport options,” he said.