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B.C. health employers refuse to move on key issues

Collective agreement for more 47,000 health care workers in B.C. expires on March 31, 2014. The employer continues to refuse to address major issues.

Vancouver (17 Mar. 2014) — With just weeks remaining before the current contract covering 47,000 health care workers is set to expire, B.C.’s health employers have failed to constructively, or meaningfully, address key bargaining issues.

Workload, safer working conditions and job security need to be addressed through negotiations

The multi-union Facilities Bargaining Association (FBA) is pressing health employers to address workload, safer working conditions, and job security provisions that would provide stability in care delivery, reduce injuries, and provide economic security for members. In addition, the FBA wants the restoration of vacation days that were frozen in the 2010 round of bargaining.

The Health Employers Association of B.C. has so far rejected the unions’ proposals.

The FBA will continue to bargain with the objective of reaching a negotiated settlement and will urge health employers and government to do the same.

The eleven-union FBA represents a wide range of workers including care aides, ambulance paramedics, health records staff, lab and other diagnostic specialists, sterile supply technicians, emergency dispatch personnel, trades and maintenance workers, activity aides and rehab assistants, IT specialists, pharmacy technicians, admitting and booking clerks, administrative staff, cleaning and dietary staff, and many others. 

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