As many of you may know, there is a possibility of a strike by roughly 4100 workers at 46 New Brunswick nursing homes. I am writing to ask that you support these workers in their fight for fair and respectful working conditions.
On March 7, 90% of workers voted in favour of strike action, rejecting an offer from the New Brunswick government that would keep them overworked and underpaid. On Sunday, the Government of New Brunswick obtained a court order suspending their right to strike for 10 days and undermining these workers’ labour rights.
I’m asking you to please contact Progressive Conservative MLAs to demand that they return to the table with an offer that respects the critical work done by the workers who care for the most vulnerable among us. Nursing home workers deserve better.
In the event of a strike, I also ask you to show your solidarity by respecting these workers’ picket lines.
In solidarity,
Colleen Coffey
Regional Executive Vice-President – Atlantic
Public Service Alliance of Canada
Despite all the magic of social media, letters still pack a serious punch. A letter to the editor, to an MP, to your municipal councilor can make important inroads. PSAC members know more than almost anyone about the public services we provide, and we are best equipped to speak up and write up when these services are under attack.