Health-care workers rally for better pay, working conditions
AUPE members at Calgary care facilities pushed for contracts matching Edmonton deals, citing chronic short-staffing and the need to work multiple jobs.
Alberta Union for Provincial Employees members rallied outside three Calgary care facilities Monday, pushing for a new contract that would bring their pay and working conditions in line with Edmonton agreements.
The union has been without a contract for over a year. Members cited chronic short-staffing as a key issue—workers report having to hold two or three jobs just to make ends meet, then come to work exhausted.
"There needs to be some recognition of the value of the work that they do," said AUPE President Sandra Azocar. "This is important work. It's essential work so that seniors can get the care that they need."
The union launched its Continuing Care Campaign this month to highlight what it describes as a crisis in seniors care. Azocar said AUPE hopes to land contracts matching those at Capitol Care in Edmonton, which operates a similar facility.
Bargaining talks are scheduled to resume Monday, June 8.