Local 42 – CDHA Healthcare, LPNs Strike Information

Local 42 – CDHA Healthcare, LPNs

Strike Information 

Many of you are watching and waiting to see what will happen at Capital Health as your colleagues in Local 97 head towards a strike.

We realize that many of you have questions about how this will affect you, and hope to address some of these queries here.

The following are some common questions we have been receiving:

Q. How can I show support to co-workers who are on strike?

We suggest that you “walk the line before you cross the line.” NSGEU members are encouraged to support co-workers who are on strike. You can be supportive by picketing with them on your own time (such as during breaks, at lunch or before/after work). You can bring them coffee and/or refreshments, and beep your car horn and wave to show encouragement! Picketers greatly appreciate these signs of support.

Q. What do I do if I’m asked to do the work of a striking co-worker?

The Trade Union Act protects you from any disciplinary consequences if you refuse to do the work of another employee who is on strike. The work of someone who is on strike is called “struck work.”

“No Employer and no person acting on behalf of an Employer shall: suspend, discharge or impose any financial or other penalty on an employee or take any other disciplinary action against an employee, by reason of his refusal to perform all or some of the duties and responsibilities of another employee who is participating in a strike that is not prohibited by this Act”  (Section 53 (3)c of the Trade Union Act)

If you are asked to do the work of striking employees, please contact the NSGEU at 424-4063.

Q. I’ve been asked to work overtime in anticipation of the strike. Do I have to accept?

Your employer has the right to require overtime. But, this depends on the current staffing level and staffing mix on your unit, also whether the overtime is requested at the end of your shift or if your employer is calling you when you are at home, when you aren’t working. If you’re asked to do overtime but aren’t sure if you must accept, please contact the NSGEU at 424-4063.

Q. Do I have to go to work if my co-workers go on strike?

Yes. Your local is not on legal strike, so members are required to go to work on their scheduled shifts.

Q. Do I have to cross the picket line?

You are required to do your work, so you will have to cross a picket line if there is one at your workplace. We suggest you “walk the line, before you cross the line.” This shows your respect and support for your co-workers.

Q. What if I am uncomfortable or I believe there is a threat if I cross the picket line?

If you feel uncomfortable, ask to speak to the picket captain and explain who you are and that you need to go into your workplace. You can also call your manager or a person who may be assigned to assist employees in crossing the picket line.

If you believe the picket line is a legitimate threat to your physical well-being, you should advise the NSGEU so we can look into the situation.

If your employer insists you cross the picket line and you still feel there is a legitimate threat to your physical well-being, contact the NSGEU for further information.

If your safety is being jeopardized, you have the right to refuse under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Q. What if I have a question that is not on this list, or I need further information?

You can contact NSGEU if you need assistance between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday by calling 424-4063 (toll-free 1-877-556-7438) or by emailing inquiry@nsgeu.ca. Outside of the regular office hours, you can contact your Local President, Tracey Fisk, at traceyfisk@hotmail.com.