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June 29, 1998
Creation of more regular nursing positions dominates talks
The Nurses' Bargaining Association had extensive discussions with HEABC last week about the sharp increase in casualization and the dramatic decline in full-time regular nursing employment in BC during the past five years -- a key issue at the bargaining table.
The trend is having a negative effect on quality of patient care and is creating a nursing shortage, as many nurses look elsewhere for regular work. Full-time positions went down by 8% between 1992 and 1997, casual positions increased by 5%, and part-time positions increased by 3%.
The employer showed some interest in two of our proposals: the creation of float pools for vacation and workload relief, and a provision that would require employers to offer part-time employees an opportunity to increase their hours before the employer creates a new part-time position.
At the same time HEABC is resisting our proposal that casual hours should be converted into new full-time regular positions if those casual hours are being worked on a consistent basis over a long period of time.
Also rejected was our proposal that any new position must be full-time unless there is agreement that there are clear operational reasons not to do so.
When negotiations adjourned we were considering an employer request for the creation of temporary positions for vacation relief. These positions might be of interest if they carried with them the full benefits of any regular position.
The employer is also reviewing the BCNU proposal for a deferred salary plan.
In other bargaining news, we have confirmed Healthcare Labour Adjustment Agency financing of $9 to $12 million during each year of the next contract to cover members of the nurses', facilities, paramedical and community support associations.
The Nurses' Bargaining Association will resume talks with HEABC on July 6.
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