Patient transfer services union serves 72-hour strike notice; pickets lines possible at Metro Vancouver hospitals

VANCOUVER – CUPE 873-03 served 72-hour strike notice to SN Transport yesterday after attempts to reach a first collective agreement failed. The union represents 115 workers who provide patient transfer services in the Lower Mainland. “From the moment this group of workers joined CUPE and we started bargaining their first agreement, the employer has resisted and used foot dragging tactics,” said CUPE National Representative John Strohmaier. “No-one likes to go on strike, but this employer has done nothing to reach a fair first collective agreement but put up obstacles.”

Although the workers are legally in a position to strike on Sunday, the union is meeting with members over the weekend and a bargaining session is scheduled for Monday. The 115 employees who work as patient transfer drivers at SN Transport, a private company, voted to join CUPE in July. They have been bargaining their first contract since August, 2014. - See more at: http://www.cupe.bc.ca/news/3836#sthash.8NqwtWFk.dpuf

HSA members have a right to refuse to cross a picket line. Should you encounter a picket line, do not cross it. Contact your steward or the HSA office at 604 517 0994 for direction.

In the event picket lines are established, HSA will update the website with information on how to proceed.