The agreement in principle between Héma-Québec and its nurses and practical nurses in Québec (affiliated with the CSN) is unanimously ratified

The accord préliminaire between Héma-Québec and its nurses and practical nurses in the Province of Quebec (affiliated with the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN)) has been unanimously ratifié. This agreement was the result of negotiations between the two groups, which have persevered to reach a consensus even amidst the increasingly difficult economic circumstances faced by the region.

The accord provides a needed respite from the prolonged period of negotiations that have persisted since the expiration of the previous contract in April 2019. It also provides a framework for a new three-year contract, commencing on April 1, 2020 and running through March 31, 2023.

The agreement includes a significant increase in compensation for nurses and practical nurses, with a 3.4% increase for the first year and a 3.2% increase for the second and third years. Additionally, the agreement provides for incremental pay increases of 2.7% for each year of service, up to a maximum of six years.

In addition to the salary increases, the agreement includes language pertaining to workloads and working conditions for nurses and practical nurses. Notably, the agreement reinforces the rights of nurses and practical nurses to engage in collective bargaining and prohibits them from being subjected to discrimination or reprisal.

The ratification of the accord concludes a period of arduous negotiations between the two groups, and provides a platform for the future of healthcare in the Province of Quebec.

The unanimous approval of the accord préliminaire between Héma-Québec and its nurses and practical nurses in Quebec (affiliated with the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN)) marks the culmination of protracted negotiations to reach a consensus in the face of a difficult economic milieu. The resultant three-year contract, commencing April 1, 2020 and expiring on March 31, 2023, provides for salary increases of 3.4% for the first year, and 3.2% for the second and third years, as well as incremental pay increases of 2.7% for each year of service, up to a maximum of six years. Furthermore, the accord includes language pertaining to workloads and working conditions for nurses and practical nurses, and reinforces their right to engage in collective bargaining and protection from discrimination or reprisal. The ratification of this agreement provides a much-needed reprieve and a basis for the future of healthcare in Quebec.