Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Union healthcare workers at Western New York’s largest employer, Kaleida Health, have agreed to extend their current labor agreement with the healthcare network through Saturday, June 14 at 11:59 p.m.
The contract extension comes as unions plan to present an economic package next week. Hospital workers are represented by Communications Workers of America, AFL-CIO and 1199SEIU.
"We believe it is prudent to extend the current contract," said Cori Gambini, President of CWA Local 1168 in a statement Friday. "Discussions regarding economic matters will commence next week and we need to take the time needed to negotiate the best contract we can for our membership. We understand that we will not finalize everything before the current expiration date, and this extension will provide our members with a sense of stability and assurance as we continue to negotiate a successor agreement."
Healthcare workers are demanding improved staffing levels, increased safety protections, job security, as well as dignity and respect with the newest contract with Kaleida Health. Workers also believe the network must offer a comprehensive wage and benefit package to recruit and retain experienced workers to provide care for patients, including improvements in pension.
In addition, healthcare workers should not be asked to accept concessionary proposals from management.
The current three-year collective bargaining agreement covers nearly 8,000 healthcare workers at Buffalo General Medical Center, Oishei Children’s Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, HighPointe on Michigan, DeGraff Medical Park, and various community-based clinics across Western New York.
Union members work as Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Professionals, Technical Employees, Clinicians, Business Office Clerical, and Service and Maintenance at three major hospitals, two nursing homes and a variety of clinics across Erie and Niagara Counties.
A Federal Mediator from Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) was present during contract talks until government cuts. Unions and management hired a mediator familiar with both parties, who joined the talks last week.
Bargaining resumes Tuesday, and will continue daily from Monday through Friday beginning at 9 a.m. each day.
Meanwhile, after a full day of negotiations, the McGuire Group issued their last, best, and final offer to nursing home workers covered by one labor contract at 4 facilities.
Within the coming days, union members at four McGuire facilities will vote on management’s final offer. If unacceptable, members will authorize next steps, which could include an unlimited strike at North Gate, Garden Gate, Autumn view Manor and Seneca Manor facilities, all owned and operated by McGuire Group and Living Legends: