Direct employees of health authorities, including all HSA members, will have access to work in the event that HEU members in a first contract dispute with Sodexho erect picket lines. Each of the worksites affected has been designated locations where picketing is allowed, and access is guaranteed to ensure 100 per cent levels of service by direct employees of the health authorities.

HSA today received notice that the Hospital Employees' Union has issued 72-hour strike notice against Sodexho. The parties have been bargaining for a first collective agreement since March 11.

The earliest potential for job action is Thursday, Sept. 15. Because of orders issued by the Labour Relations Board, HSA and other union members will not be affected by picket lines, except that access to the worksite will be through designated entrances.

The provincial agreement between the Nurses Bargaining Association (NBA) and the Health Employers Association of BC effective April 1, 2004 - March 31, 2006 has been printed and should reach employers by July 18, 2005.

Employers are responsible for ensuring all members working under the contract receive a copy.

If you do not receive a copy of the contract, you may request one through the human resources department or contact at your workplace.

All Health Sciences Association members who work in the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority and are covered by the Paramedical Professional Bargaining Association and Nurses Bargaining Association collective agreements will benefit from agreements reached to develop single seniority lists for each of the bargaining associations.