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Tentative B.C. community health bargaining deal

Wage, shift and benefit improvements agreed to by Health Employers' Association of B.C.

B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) Vancouver (22 Dec. 2009) - A tentative settlement has been reached between the Community Bargaining Association (CBA) and the Health Employers' Association of B.C. (HEABC).The CBA includes the bargaining committee of the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE).

Highlights of the proposed deal are:

  • Wage increases of 3% and 3% for LPNs and similar increases for LPN supervisors and certified dental assistants.
  • A shift premium of 25 cents for all weekend shifts.
  • Establishment of a joint working group to work with HEABC to improve scheduling practices.

Changes to benefits include:

  • A point of sale (Blue Net) drug card.
  • Vi son Care has increased from $225 in 24 months up to $350 every 24 months,
  • A joint working group has been established to examine the feasibility of short-term sick leave.
  • The annual extended health benefit (EHB) deductible has been increased to $100.
  • Massage therapy has been capped to $1000 annually.
  • Long-term disability (LTD) for the 'own occupation' category has been reduced from 24 to 19 months.
  • Limits have been placed on LTD for claimants who have pre-existing conditions.

More details on the agreement and information about ratification voting will e posted soon on the BCGEU website.

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