- September 26, 2024
Healthcare Bargaining Conference Unites Members from Across BC
Last week, workers from the healthcare sector across British Columbia gathered for the 2024 Healthcare Bargaining Conference in Coquitlam to share their work stories and challenges and prepare for the negotiations beginning early next year.
The three-day conference began with remarks from Nancy Joe, the Cultural Coordinator of kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation). Next, Sussane Skidmore, President of the BC Federation of Labour, spoke about the essential work members were doing for their communities, and the significance of engaging in the upcoming October provincial elections. Following her, BCGEU Lead Negotiator Richard Tones discussed the vital work of the Community Bargaining Association (CBA) and Community Social Services Bargaining Association (CSSBA) and the challenges they face in advocating for diverse priorities of union members from several different unions.
Members learned about the challenges of bargaining firsthand through a team bargaining game. This fun activity highlighted the importance of achieving consensus within their groups and developing effective bargaining strategies to secure more provisions through negotiations with other teams. By the end of the game, members recognized that bargaining is about improving a contract for everyone, and that sometimes small sacrifices can lead to more important gains.
For the first time, the bargaining survey results were shared during interactive break-out sessions. Members learned about the key priorities and issues related to scheduling, wages, and benefits, as well as how it differed for members depending on their employer. These discussions served as a source of inspiration, motivating members to seek different ways to improve their working conditions and secure their commitment to fighting for a fair contract.
The conference also included interactive workshops, a speech from UFCW Canada President Shawn Haggerty, and a panel featuring UFCW 1518 Executive Board Members Angie Crosato, Connie Buckner, and Virgil Encarnacion. They shared their experiences at the bargaining table respective to their sectors, inspiring members to stand together and remain dedicated to achieving a fair contract despite the challenges they may face.
Last but not least, BC’s Health Minister Adrian Dix took the stage on the last day to provide valuable insights into the current landscape of the healthcare sector. Members also expressed their concerns about safety, understaffing, and retention issues, making sure their voices were heard ahead of the upcoming negotiations next year.
Members return to their respective units more prepared to mobilize their colleagues in the fight for a better contract, as well as an understanding of what is at stake in this upcoming BC Election. This bargaining conference established a standard for a new deal that recognizes the respect our members in the healthcare sector deserve.
