Represented hospice nurses at Allina Health have officially begun a seven day strike following prolonged contract negotiations over staffing demands, overtime pay, and holiday compensation.
"We are exhausted for our patients," says Allina Hospice RN case manager Abby McDonald. "We are exhausted for ourselves, and we are exhausted for our families. When we work on Christmas, there's no holiday pay, none whatsoever. We have been at the bargaining table with Allina for a year and a half."
This latest negotiation comes as Allina is in acquisition talks with California-based Sutter Health, and that has left workers anxious about future job security. That merger is under review by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison.
Allina responded with disappointment over the walkout.
"Caring for our patients and care team members is Allina Health's top priority," reads a statement from Allina Health sent to WCCO Radio Friday morning. "We are disappointed that two SEIU-represented groups have chosen to strike. We have comprehensive plans in place to maintain safe, high-quality, compassionate care for patients and families during this brief strike activity and to ensure no disruption in care for our communities."
Allina also maintains the striking nurses represent a small percentage of staff, and patients shouldn't see a major drop off in care.
"We estimate about 10% of Mercy medical staff are represented by the union, and less than 4% of Mercy medical staff will be on strike," Allina explains.
Both sides say they're willing to go back to the negotiating table.
