Thousands of CUPE health workers vote in favour of job action

“These incredible strike vote results send that minister and his government a message that our members are done waiting, are united, and ready to fight for a fair contract.”

The union called the latest offer from the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations “inadequate,” saying it would increase contract staffing and move workers further from their homes, leave them making less than other health workers in western Canada and does not “catch CUPE members up after years of wage erosion” when compared to the rising cost of living.

The union said between 2012 and 2025 the cost of living in the province rose by 33.7 per cent, compared to a general wage increase of 14.32 per cent for CUPE 5430 workers.

Jalloh said the results of the vote were announced at the North Battleford office of Saskatchewan Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill in order to put him “on notice.”

“This strike mandate is a message that CUPE 5430 members are done waiting and are willing to do whatever it takes to get the deal they deserve,” Jalloh said.

Mark Hancock, CUPE’s national president, said the vote was about fair wages, safe staffing and respect for workers.

“This government cannot solve a recruitment and retention crisis without respecting and fairly compensating the people on the frontlines. They cannot build a stronger health care system by burning out the people holding it together,” Hancock said in a statement.

CKOM has reached out to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health for comment.

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by CKOM

Thousands of CUPE health workers vote in favour of job action

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