NSGEU Media release: NSGEU Local 39, Home Support Workers in Inverness County, Vote to Strike

February 13, 2014

NSGEU Local 39, Home Support Workers in Inverness County, Vote to Strike

Cape Breton – Members of NSGEU Local 39, home support staff in Inverness County, have voted 98% in favour of a strike to back up their bargaining demands as they prepare for conciliation.

The vote was counted last evening, February 12.

Local 39 is one of 14 home support locals represented by the NSGEU that have held or are holding strike votes through January and February. The key issue at stake is wage parity. NSGEU home support workers are being paid less than those who have the same qualifications and do the same work in hospital settings.

“Home support workers play a critical role within our healthcare system. They have the same training and they do the same type of work, but they are working under very different conditions outside of the typical healthcare setting. They certainly deserve the same hourly wage their counterparts receive,” says Joan Jessome, President of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union, “This local is united behind their Bargaining Committee as they head into conciliation.”

Conciliation begins on Monday, February 17.

There are approximately 56 members of Local 39 who provide home support services for clients in the Inverness County area.
-30-

The Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union represents over 30,000 women and men who provide quality public services Nova Scotians count on every day.

For more information or to arrange an interview with NSGEU President, Joan Jessome, please contact:

Deedee Slye, NSGEU Communications Officer
424.4063 (office)
497-6761 (cell)
dslye@nsgeu.ca