Unions representing thousands of Nova Scotia medical assistance workers say they have reached ainterimagreement with the Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health Center.
The Health Support Bargaining Union consists of Unifor, NSGEU and CUPE.
The unit employs more than 3,500 health support workers, including environmental services, catering and food services, porters, electricians, plumbers, laundry services, protection services and power engineers. I represent
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Jennifer Murray, recently elected Unifor's Atlantic Regional Director, said in a release:
"Our healthcare system is not a collection of beds and buildings, it is a team of skilled workers. , must be respected.”
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The negotiation process began in December 2021. The parties failed to reach an agreement in May 2022 and have agreed to appoint a mediator.
After three days of mediation over the summer, they were finally able to reach a tentative agreement early Tuesday morning, with the negotiating committee recommending approval for accession.
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Wage packages, recognizing some of the lowest wage categories in healthcare.”
“We must continue to improve wages for health workers,” said Bev, president of CUPE Local 8920. Strachan said in a release.
"Healthcare is at a post-pandemic tipping point. Improving wages and working conditions is the best way to retain and recruit workers across all categories."
47} The interim agreement also includes improved shift and weekend premiums, as well as improved language and seniority protections, the release said.
This transaction has not yet been approved and Members will be provided with details of a tentative agreement in the coming days.
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