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Negotiations continue for NSGEU nurses at CDHA

NSGEU/NUPGE members remain strong in the face of employer concessionary demands.

Halifax (13 Nov. 2013) - Negotiations for nurses represented by the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU/NUPGE) employed by the Capital District Health Authority (CDHA) are continuing. The latest bargaining session took place on November 4 and 5.

Issues such as scheduling, vacation and nurse-to-patient ratios are still outstanding in negotiations

Althought the parties have reached agreement on a few minor issues, no progress has been made on scheduling issues, the use of vacation credits, or nurse-to-patient ratios.

The employer clearly indicated that the 12-hour shift schedule of four-on/five-off will not continue.

In spite of the employer’s position, the bargaining committee will be presenting a proposal regarding scheduling at the meeting on November 18. NSGEU/NUPGE members have spoken loudly and clearly: work schedules are a major issue.

NSGEU/NUPGE members remain strong in the face of employer concessionary demands

Although NSGEU/NUPGE members have spent six days at the bargaining table, the employer has not withdrawn any of their proposals that the union views as “clawbacks” or “concessions” from the collective agreement. For example, the employer wants an inferior sick leave plan for new hires. They also want to discontinue the education premium for a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing for nurses hired after the ratification of the collective agreement. Additionally, the employer wants to discontinue the eleven per cent in lieu of benefits paid to casuals if casuals are receiving retiree benefits.

The NSGEU/NUPGE bargaining committee has soundly rejected these employer proposals.

Members should continue to check the union's website, www.nsgeu.ca for further updates.

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