CUPE joins call for comprehensive plan to improve health care services in Digby

Beds sit empty at Digby hospital, while neighbouring hospitals unable to meet needs of all patients “The Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) is not doing enough to ensure the Digby General Hospital is being used to full capacity,” says Carl Crouse, CUPE national representative. “Right now, there are approximately half of the 33 beds sitting empty, while hospitals nearby are reportedly in need of more beds on a regular basis.” “Digby has had empty in-patient beds and empty restorative care beds for months now,” adds Crouse. “In a provincial health care system where there is overcrowding and bed shortages, it’s a real failure of the health authority to have any facility operating below capacity.” “Our members are joining the call by the community, including the Digby Health Coalition, to improve public health care in the area,” says the Nan McFadgen, president of CUPE Nova Scotia. “We agree with the coalition. … Read more…

Cape Breton education workers devastated by layoff notices

Twenty-eight education workers received layoff notices this week from their employer, the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board (CBVRSB). The workers, who are members of CUPE Local 5050, include 23 teaching assistants, two secretaries, two supervisor cleaners and one cleaner. A bus driver and an inventory clerk position were also lost through attrition. CUPE and Local 5050 members are devastated by the board’s decision to lay off staff. “It is poor timing considering that the board members recently voted to increase their own wages. It’s a bitter pill to swallow when our members are losing jobs,” says Mary Jessome, CUPE Local 5050 president. “The wage increases add up to approximately $40,000. For that amount, they could have kept a number of staff,” says Jessome. “In February, the McNeil Government imposed a contract on teachers through Bill 75, which includes the creation of a committee to study inclusion in our classrooms. The … Read more…

2017 Provincial Election: What’s at stake for CUPE members?

Dear CUPE member, I believe Stephen McNeil ‘s Liberal government is not listening to Nova Scotians. Time and again, the choices made by the McNeil government have been out of touch with the needs of workers, their families and our communities. The McNeil government deserves to be defeated. Just look at their track record. A public health care system in crisis, budget cuts to nursing homes, threats to privatize home support services, tuition fee hikes, picking fights with unions, failing to create good jobs. . . the list goes on. On Tuesday, May 30 you have the opportunity to vote for progressive NDP candidates who will stand up for working people and their families. A number of the NDP candidates are CUPE members, prepared to fight for you in our legislature. Together we can do this. Every vote counts! Nan McFadgen President , CUPE Nova Scotia The McNeil government’s attack … Read more…