Revera employees get new contract from Public Emergency Tribunal
EDMONTON – Seniors health care employees at Revera Riverbend Retirement home have a new collective agreement today, written by Arbitrator David Jones. The report concludes a Public Emergency Tribunal ordered by Human Services Minister David Hancock in August.
The employees, who are represented by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, spent 70 days on strike until the province intervened when it was discovered that inadequate care provided by replacement staff threatened the health and safety of seniors at Revera.
“We are generally pleased with the new agreement,” said AUPE negotiator Dale Perry. “The agreement delivers improved benefits, and wages that are in line with the industry standard at seniors facilities across the province.”
Over the life of the agreement nursing wages will be brought in line with those provided to Alberta Health Services employees.
AUPE President Guy Smith said it was important to see this resolution for Revera’s staff and residents, whose lives were disrupted due to the employer’s bargaining tactics.
“I am extremely proud of our members for the months they dedicated to the picket line in an effort to improve the quality of care at Revera Riverbend. This agreement will bring needed stability to the seniors facility and help deliver the quality of care seniors expect and deserve,” Smith said.
“Ultimately the employer forced an unnecessary conflict. The facts of the marketplace didn’t change during or after the strike. Our demands were based in reality, and that was reflected in Mr. Jones’ award today and our members’ resolve throughout the strike. “ he added.
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For more information, contact:
Guy Smith, President, AUPE – 780-930-3301 or 780-265-2294 (cell)
Dale Perry, Negotiator, AUPE – 780-238-8697 (cell)
Mark Wells, Senior Communications Advisor, AUPE – 780-930-3311 or 780-904-0688 (cell)