MEDICINE HAT, Alberta--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The United Steelworkers (USW) is excited to welcome 80 workers from The Wellington Retirement Residence in Medicine Hat, Alta., who have voted overwhelmingly to join the union in a ballot overseen by the Alberta Labour Relations Board.
“We are excited to move forward as a team with the United Steelworkers having our backs. We will now be able to work in a safe, organized and positive environment to improve conditions for us and for the residents we care for daily,” said a worker from The Wellington Retirement Residence.
“I am thrilled these workers chose the USW to represent them. The pandemic has certainly put a focus on the difficult working conditions that health-care workers face every day on the job. These workers know their work does not stop being essential when the pandemic ends and we will fight hard for them because we believe they are essential every day. Our priority has always been the health and safety of all workers and I have maintained that essential doesn’t mean sacrificial,” said Stephen Hunt, USW Director for Western Canada.
Over the next few months, the union and workers will begin negotiating workplace improvements with the employer. Once a tentative collective agreement is in place, the workers will be able to vote to accept the contract.
“We’re honoured to welcome these workers to our union. This has been a long road, but we persevered together because these workers need a united voice for better and safer working conditions and fair treatment from their employer. We look forward to working with our new members to negotiate their first contract,” said Pablo Guerra, USW District 3 Organizing Co-ordinator.
The Wellington provides 100 independent and 93 supportive living options for seniors seeking to maintain independence while enjoying access and services to amenities.
The USW represents over 50,000 health-care workers including members in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Health-care workers who are interested in joining the union can learn more about the benefits at www.betterworknow.ca.
