These items included:
• Job security language.
• Overtime pay: 2.5 times for named holidays and 3 times for August Civic and Christmas Day.
• Employer coverage of requested doctor’s notes to a maximum $30.00.
Carewest is publicly funded to treat you equal to other Alberta health care professionals doing similar work in the province. While other publicly funded facilities who are currently in bargaining agreed to these protections and more, Carewest is refusing you the same rights.
The employer also challenged union proposals that wouldn’t cost them anything, including an increase to the minimum number of days the employer must inform you of a layoff before your last day (from 14 to 28). This would give you the time you deserve to address any financial affairs or other matters if need be in the case of a layoff. Carewest’s pushback on this item is unnecessary and disrespectful.
As a provider who claims to “foster supportive relationships,” they have a responsibility to treat you with respect.
Your bargaining team will continue to remind them of this as we plan for our next bargaining dates. Discussions for our Essential Services Agreement (ESA) are also ongoing at this time.
If you have any questions, please contact:
CAREWEST GSS BARGAINING TEAM MEMBERS:
Rene Gripping rgripping@yahoo.com
Tim Sherba timsherba97@hotmail.com
Denise Kuzyk denise_K15@hotmail.com
Jane Swaren donjane@shaw.ca
AUPE RESOURCE STAFF:
Chris Dickson, Negotiator c.dickson@aupe.org
Celia Shea, Communications c.shea@aupe.org