Landmark level of support reached for Hardisty care staff
EDMONTON – More than 1,000 letters supporting striking nursing staff at Hardisy Care Centre have been sent to Premier Redford, Health Minister Fred Horne, AHS CEO Chris Eagle and Opposition leaders Danielle Smith, Raj Sherman and Brian Mason.
“Albertans are concerned because B.C.-based Park Place Seniors Living refuses to pay nursing staff industry–standard wages, instead paying 30 per cent below the standard. They’re also concerned Park Place is pocketing a percentage of the public tax dollars they are given to pay that industry standard to boost their profits,” said AUPE President Guy Smith.
“Albertans don’t want to see seniors quality of care compromised because an employer refuses to invest in the staff needed to provide proper care, and they don’t want to see their taxes used to pad a company’s bottom line,” Smith said.
The first letter of support was sent on May 14.
More than 100 Licensed Practical Nurses and Health Care Aides have been on strike at Hardisty Care Centre since May 22.
Here’s a sample of what Albertans are saying about Hardisty employees who are on strike, and the government’s policies on private-for-profit seniors care:
“I can’t imagine a more devoted and hardworking staff. It just enrages me to think that they aren’t even getting the standard rate for their hard work and devotion – even though their employer is being given government subsidies to pay them a reasonable rate.”
“I have experienced enough to say this isn’t acceptable. Solve this fast for patients’ care.”
“My dad is a resident at Hardisty Care Centre. The staff is very professional and caring. They deserve to be paid fairly for their work.”
“My mother was a resident at Hardisty for 3.5 years and I know how hard all the staff worked. They gave great care to my mom and it is not fair they get paid less than other care facilities.”
“My grandma lives in the Hardisty Care Home . . . because of the strike my grandma is not being cared for by the staff we want.”
“My aunt is in Hardisty and I believe that she deserves better care from your system which could be delivered if the caregivers were given a fair wage.”
“I am begging you to investigate Park Place and their treatment of their employees and residents.”
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For more information:
Guy Smith, AUPE President, 780-930-3301 or 780-265-2294
Tyler Bedford, AUPE Communications, 780-930-3406