On March 25, 26, and 27, representatives from Saskatchewan Union of Nurses (SUN), Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations (SAHO) met to continue discussions.
As we’ve seen at other bargaining tables in the province, negotiations have involved difficult and lengthy conversations, and this process will be no different. These conversations continue to be challenging, but the Negotiations Committee is dedicated to taking the time to get it right, and to get a strong outcome, rather than simply a fast one. Developing clear, updated language is foundational to ensuring a highly effective collective agreement going forward. This will better position SUN with a collective bargaining agreement that can be applied effectively and consistently to protect members in their workplaces across the province.
During these recent meetings, conversation returned to a focus on changes that have resulted from the transformation of twelve former health authorities into a single provincial health system. The structure and geography of the new Saskatchewan Health Authority could have a significant impact on how and where registered nurses do their work, particularly in community positions.
The Committee is working diligently to get a clear understanding of what the employer structure and work areas will look like. While we have a provincial collective agreement, with affiliates, positions must not be so expansive that members’ ability to be supported and provide safe patient care is at risk. It is of the utmost importance that SUN members are protected in their workplace, and their rights are upheld.
Despite the challenges faced on some topics, progress is occurring. One of the goals of this round of bargaining has been to make progress by achieving agreed to language at each session. The Committee is pleased to report that there has now been sign off on over one hundred articles that include: clearer definitions; updated harassment language; gender neutral language; housekeeping; and improved clarity in union recognition and security.
These important conversations will continue during the next set of bargaining dates, which are scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025.
Negotiations Updates are regular communications meant to keep SUN members informed of the bargaining committee’s activities and the status of SUN’s bargaining efforts.
