CUPE New Brunswick members take part in strike action on Oct. 30, 2021. (Image: Robert Lothian)
Strike action by CUPE NB locals continues across the province today.
A Spokesperson with CUPE says the same seven locals as yesterday are out, but more are joining them today.
Horizon Health Network tweeted this morning, “Due to #CUPE 1252 strike activity, Horizon is assessing health care services and will notify the public if there is a change. We are committed to provide essential health care services to our patients & clients throughout the strike and our emergency departments will remain open.”
Due to #CUPE 1252 strike activity, Horizon is assessing health care services and will notify the public if there is a change. We are committed to provide essential health care services to our patients & clients throughout the strike and our emergency departments will remain open
— Horizon Health (@HorizonHealthNB) October 30, 2021
Vitalité Health Network also tweeted today, “Due to the CUPE strike activity, @VitaliteNB is assessing health care services and will notify the public if there is a change.”
@VitaliteNB is committed to provide essential health care services to our patients and clients throughout the strike, and our emergency departments will remain open. pic.twitter.com/IWORW62IiV
— Réseau de santé Vitalité (@VitaliteNB) October 30, 2021
Schools were closed on Friday, due to striking bus drivers, custodians, educational assistants and mechanics. The strike is also affecting correctional facilities, ferries and adult and child protection services provided by social workers.
Premier Blaine Higgs says, “A fair offer was on the table this week that included more than just wage increases. I would like to believe that the full package has been shared with the entire membership.”
Higgs has also said workers could be forced back to work, if the strike jeopardizes healthcare, especially in the pandemic.
“I hope, however, this will not be necessary,” he said, adding there is still an opportunity to have further discussions.
The government had been offering a ten per cent wage increase over five years but pulled the offer after talks broke off. CUPE’s most recent offer included a 12 per cent wage increase over four years, down from its initial ask of 20 per cent.
On Thursday, the province said it is now offering 8.5 per cent, which it says is similar to agreements reached with three other bargaining units.
With files from Brad Perry and Tara Clow.
