Overwhelming 98% of AUPE Nursing Staff Approve Strike Action
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) has announced a significant outcome regarding potential strike actions by nursing care staff. An overwhelming 98% of members have voted in favor of strike action, reflecting deep concerns over salary issues and workplace safety.
Details of the Vote
The voting process occurred from October 30 to November 3, with 11,031 members participating. AUPE President Sandra Azocar emphasized the urgent need for change. “They voted overwhelmingly in favor of strike action because they are fed up with stagnant wages and unsafe working conditions,” Azocar stated during a news conference in Edmonton.
Breakdown of Negotiations
Discussions between AUPE and Alberta Health Services, along with other related organizations, have been challenging. Bargaining efforts came to a halt in April, but mediation talks are scheduled to resume soon. The 16,000 AUPE members, primarily licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and healthcare aides, might issue a strike notice as early as November 17.
Concerns Raised by the Union
- Stagnant wages for healthcare workers
- Unsafe work environments affecting staff and patients
- Healthcare staffing shortages with a vacancy rate of 10-12%
Government’s Position on Wage Increases
Finance Minister Nate Horner expressed disappointment with the strike vote results. He indicated that the government is offering a 12% wage increase over four years, a proposal he claims is competitive with other public sector settlements.
Horner commented on the AUPE’s demands, stating that the union seeks nearly equal pay between LPNs and registered nurses (RNs), with requested salary increases of 40% to 55%. He noted that this proposal could lead to costs exceeding $2 billion.
Salary Comparisons and Industry Struggles
Kate Robinson, AUPE’s lead negotiator, highlighted the disparity in pay between LPNs and RNs. LPNs perform around 84% of the duties that RNs do, yet their salaries are only about 67% of RNs’ earnings. Comparatively, Manitoba pays LPNs 81% of RN salaries.
Additional Context for Negotiations
Robinson pointed out that despite RNs in Alberta earning the highest wages in Canada, LPN salaries rank lower, at seventh place nationally. “We have a long way to go to catch up with the rest of Canada,” she noted.
As healthcare aides prepare to become a regulated profession in February, this aspect is also influential in negotiations. AUPE has a framework for essential services in the event of a strike, ensuring basic services continue.
Political Reactions
Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi has criticized the government for allegedly disregarding safety concerns raised by the union. He fears that the government may utilize the notwithstanding clause to sidestep negotiations if necessary.
However, Horner indicated that while the use of the notwithstanding clause seems unlikely in this case, it remains a potential option. “I’m hesitant to ever take anything totally off the table,” he stated, acknowledging that the government has tools at its disposal but is currently focused on negotiations.
The situation remains dynamic as AUPE continues to advocate for better working conditions and fair compensation for its members.
