‘We want solutions:’ Heron Grove employees stage protest

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Bluesky
• Share on X
• Copy Link

“Residents need a safe, caring environment . We are constantly training new employees just to see them walk out the door for a better paying job down the road,” said Heal.

Development

Parking variances granted for new seniors housing

7h ago

Community Sport Hero Awards

Okanagan's leaders in sport recognized at special event

8h ago

Air Conditioners for Seniors

Organization asking for public aid to protect seniors from extreme heat

11h ago

“We want assurance from our employer that they won’t contract out our jobs and end our relationship with the seniors we care about.” Julie Heal HEU #vernonbc #seniorscare pic.twitter.com/KFA0MPCsPu

— Vernon Matters (@VernonMattersca) March 4, 2019

The union says another issue involves fears that staff positions will be contracted out.

HEU has been bargaining with their employer, The Good Samaritan Society, since their collective agreement expired on March 31, 2018. They began bargaining on May 7 , 2018 and are expected to head back to the bargaining table on March 6 , 2019, and March 7 , 2019.

Workers at the Good Samaritan Heron Grove retirement facility stage a demonstration. They have been at the bargaining table since their contract expired March 31 2018 #VernonBC pic.twitter.com/HaZPcJSzGX

— Vernon Matters (@VernonMattersca) March 4, 2019

The demonstration is part of several expected to take place at other Good Samaritan Society facilities in the province.

“Recruiting is a challenge in British Columbia.”

In response to the union’s claims, Shirley Nowicki of The Good Samaritan Society says the issue of recruitment is something that many care facilities in the province are struggling with especially in rural areas.

“All health providers in the province are experiencing this same issue of trying to recruit quality employees to their work locations so you know we share that with others.”

She adds that their top priority remains the care of the residents .

“It is always a top priority for us and we want to reassure families that their residents and their families are receiving the highest quality of care,” said Nowicki.

For more coverage on the protest click here.