Thousands of nurses on strike

By Allanah Wills

 

Community Care Access Centre nurses are on strike in Windsor and across the province.

Almost 3000 nurses from nine different regions hit the picket line on Jan. 30. Using the slogan “forced out for fairness,” they are being represented by the Ontario Nursing Association.

“The nurses support us,” said Kathy Bourque, ONA VP for Erie St. Clair. “It’s our employer who’s not willing to step up to the plate and use the money to give us the raises we deserve.”

After 10 months of bargaining, an agreement on wages could not be met. The nurses are fighting for a 1.4 per cent wage increase over two years. They say this increase would bring them pay equality with nurses in other health care sectors, like hospitals and long-term care.

“We were offered a lump sum but it doesn’t support growth for future,” said Bourque “It doesn’t help with pensions and our young people who want to be able to retire and have decent pensions.”

There are 260 CCAC nurses in the local area. The CCAC is responsible for providing patients with care options in their areas.

“It’s a very complicated role. It’s very complex. It requires a lot of knowledge and patience,” Bourque said. “Being able to handle the dynamics. Knowing not only the patients, but the families too.”

In a statement placed on their website, CCAC promises patient care will not be compromised during the strike.

“All CCACs are focused on delivering on our commitments to patients and families during this challenging time,” said provincial CCAC spokesperson Megan Allen-Lamb.

No word has yet been released on when the strike is hoped to be resolved. Both CCAC and ONA say they are ready to return to the bargaining table if they believe a fair settlement can be reached.