The union representing workers at Mariposa Gardens has called a strike vote for Wednesday, July 11.
“Negotiations have stalled and that means we are now planning on taking a strike vote,” said Sara Rozell, communications officer with the Hospital Employees Union (HEU).
The primary issues are wage increases, but there are also issues surrounding workload and benefits.
“Our goal right now is to get the employer back to the table and negotiate an agreement which would be good for workers, but also improving caring conditions for residents,” Rozell told the Osoyoos Times.
Management had promised to give the union a package, but the union hasn’t heard about any follow-up, she said.
Rozell said there are approximately 140 employees eligible to vote on Wednesday.
She added that taking a strike vote doesn’t mean anything will happen beyond the vote, but it puts the union in a position where it could consider job action.
“It doesn’t mean that we’re going to be out on strike right away,” Rozell said.
The union is seeking a new three-year contract to replace the existing two-year contract.
RICHARD McGUIRE
Osoyoos Times
