Update on LPN Reclassification

Good afternoon,

As you are aware, in the Fall, we received an important decision from Arbitrator Bruce Outhouse regarding the long-standing Licensed Practical Nurse reclassification appeal. At that time, Mr. Outhouse found in favour of the NSGEU, determining that the role of the LPN has been substantially altered since 2011. This was a significant ruling and cleared an important hurdle in the NSGEU’s fight to have LPNs properly compensated for the work they do.

The next step was for us to try and negotiate with the employer (NSHA) for the issues of appropriate pay and retroactivity.

When your employer failed to respond to our requests to negotiate a rate of pay or review the Job Fact Sheet (JFS) Mr. Outhouse relied on to determine the work of the LPN has been substantially altered, we wrote to your employer formally requesting the JFS be sent to the Joint Job Evaluation Committee (JJE) for review. They have until February 3rd to respond.

The JJE consists of three employee representatives (one from each bargaining unit) and three employer representatives. The NSGEU representatives on this Committee are on stand-by, ready to complete the evaluation. Once the committee meets, they will conduct an evaluation based on the agreed-upon JFS and render their decision.

Should the timeline for the Joint Committee pass without a decision, we will request the JFS be sent to the steering committee for review .

I want to thank everyone who has been involved in this process for their ongoing support and patience. I understand that this has been a very lengthy fight, but the end is near. We will keep you updated as the process continues to unfold.

In solidarity,

Jason MacLean