600-member health care unit ready to withdraw services if necessary to win a fair contract
Halifax (13 April 2007) - Members of the health care bargaining unit at the Izaak Walton Killam (IWK) Health Sciences Centre in Halifax have voted 94% in favour of strike action if necessary to reach a fair contact settlement.
The institution is the largest hospital in the province.
Announced Friday by the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU/NUPGE), the vote sends "a strong message to both the IWK and the government,” says union president Joan Jessome.
“This is a strong and united group that is not willing to settle for less than a fair settlement on wages and benefits,” she said. “These women and men provide the best care in the Atlantic Region to children, youth and women. It’s time for the employer to recognize this highly specialized and dedicated health care staff with fair benefits and wages.”
The last contract expired last Oct. 31. Bargaining began Nov. 24 and reached an impasse on March 27.
Jessome says a conciliator has been informed of the vote and has been asked to file a formal report with the minister of labour, a necessary step to clear the way for a legal strike. Meetings have been scheduled with the employer to discuss emergency services coverage in the event of a walkout.
“The 600 health care members we represent are very concerned about the health and well being of the (patients) they care for on a daily basis,” says Jessome. “They are extremely saddened that their employer and the government have forced them to make the decision to strike, but it’s the only avenue left to fight for a fair contract."
Wages and benefits (including benefits for retirees) are among the main issues in dispute. The members affected work in more than 60 classifications. They include laboratory and X-Ray technologists, child care workers, respiratory therapists and social workers. NUPGE
More information:
Strike vote planned at IWK Health Sciences Centre in Halifax
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