July 20, 2012
The Community Bargaining Association (CBA) and the Health Employers’ Association of British Columbia (HEABC) continued negotiations for the renewal of the Community Health collective agreement for four days and concluded on July 12, 2012. Talks are scheduled to continue for two weeks in Vancouver starting August 15.
During the week of bargaining, the CBA and HEABC discussed and tabled counter proposals on the issues of job postings, layoff and recall, arbitration procedure, occupational health and safety, and issues related to casual rights.
The primary non-monetary issues remaining are posting language, grievance and arbitration procedures, health and safety, rights for casual employees, anti-bullying and reimbursable allowances.
“While the members of the bargaining committee are pleased that the employer is willing to continue talks we are looking for real progress in August,” said Pat Taylor, CUPE bargaining committee member.
“The members need a fair and reasonable settlement and we want the employer to bring a solid offer to the table,” adds Taylor.
CUPE represents approximately 500 members in the CBA which has over 14,000 members, the majority of whom are represented by the BCGEU. Other Unions at the table are UFCW, HEU, HSA, and USWA.