This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information. 


NUPGE throws full support behind HSAA in Alberta

Alberta government intervenes to delay strike date originally set for Friday, Aug. 14.

James Clancy, president of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)Ottawa (12 Aug. 2009) - The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is throwing its "support and solidarity" behind more than 900 members of the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) in their decision to strike in order to win a fair first contract from their private American-controlled employer, DynaLIFE Dx Diagnostic Laboratory Services.

James Clancy, president of the 340,000-member union, says the national union will back the members all the way if job action is requried to negotiate a settlement.

The workers were scheduled to walk out on Friday, Aug. 14, but the Alberta government intervened on Tuesday, appointing a disputes inquiry board to meet with the two sides and try to resolve the situation. The decision prevents the workers from walking out until the board completes its efforts.

Clancy condemned the way DynaLIFE Dx has behaved throughout the negotiating process.

"DynaLIFE Dx has been clear about its desire to maximize profits for shareholders at the expense of its employees," he says in a letter addressed to HSAA president Elisabeth Ballermann and all HSAA members.

"They’ve repeatedly refused to present a fair offer to HSAA/NUPGE members, providing these laboratory employees with no choice but to take strike action. It’s shameful that DynaLIFEDx has stated throughout the negotiating process that they can afford to fairly compensate their employees – but they just don't want to," Clancy said.
 
"The final offer from DynaLIFE Dx would place its laboratory employees, in total compensation, between 15% and 20% behind the provincial industry standard. This anemic final offer is a perfect illustration of the lack of value and respect that DynaLIFE Dx has for its employees and the important diagnostic health care services they provide to the public."

Clancy said there is nothing complicated about the dispute.

"It’s about the fair treatment of skilled and dedicated health professionals. The courageous and honourable actions of HSAA/NUPGE members at DynaLIFE Dx to fight for fairness are a source of inspiration to all NUPGE members and working people across Canada," he said.

"We’ll be with you throughout this struggle and we’re prepared to provide whatever assistance you may need to achieve respect, fairness and a decent settlement for these members."

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE

More information:
Alberta DynaLIFE Dx workers to strike Aug. 14