Buffalo, NY (WBEN) - The CWA Union representing workers at Mercy Hospital on Monday gave Mercy Hospital a 10-day notice of its intent to strike. The workers' strike would start October 1, if a new deal isn't reached by then.
The Communications Workers of America Local 1133, represents about 2,500 employees at Mercy, Kenmore Mercy, and Sisters Hospitals. Only Mercy Hospital would strike if an agreement is not reached.
Catholic Health representatives say that they plan on the hospital remaining open if a strike occurs. If a deal isn't reached, CWA Mercy employees will strike beginning on October 1 at 6 a.m.
"It is inconceivable that the union would lead essential healthcare workers on strike in the midst of an ongoing pandemic," said Eddie Bratko, president of Mercy Hospital. "I want to assure our community that our top priority is the welfare and safety of our patients, and our hospital will remain open and operational during a strike to continue providing safe, high quality care."
Catholic Health, in a statement late Monday, outlined plans in place to ensure quality care at its facilities will continue:
A multi-disciplinary team at the hospital has developed a comprehensive strike contingency plan to ensure patients' and the community's healthcare needs are met during the union's strike. This plan involves contracting with a professional staffing agency that has considerable experience in these types of situations. The agency will provide fully licensed, highly experienced, vaccinated temporary replacement nurses and other qualified staff to provide uninterrupted care and service for the duration of the strike.
