Support Bargaining Update March 3rd 2025

Health Support Council of Unions

Bargaining Update

Dear CUPE member,

In our previous update, we shared that our committee was able to develop a very comprehensive wage package and presented it to the employers on December 5, 2024. The wage package included significant monetary increases for all the classifications and focused on your integral role in the health care team. As of that update, there had been no discussions on monetary items, but we are pleased to report that monetary items were discussed during our meetings on Tuesday, February 25, Wednesday, February 26, and Thursday, February 27.

Many monetary issues remain outstanding

In addition to some discussions on wage increases, there were some good discussions on language. There are several proposals and counter proposals that are still being bargained. Both sides are still far apart on wages and other monetary proposals put forward by the Council of Unions’ committee.

As a result of some progress and in good faith, the committee and the Employers have agreed to three more dates to resume bargaining. They will take place on March 18, 19, and 20. The results of those dates will determine if a deal can be reached or if we need to file for conciliation, which is where a government-appointed third party assists the negotiations.

Bargaining delayed and interrupted

This process has been very slow and frustrating for your entire committee and we understand your frustration as well.

Premier Houston promised to fix healthcare, but not completing collective bargaining for your bargaining unit and not recognizing the vital role your work plays in the health care team fails to fix health care.

The essential services negotiation process has not paused. That committee has met several times with additional dates scheduled for March. That separate negotiation is moving along and will allow you to be in a legal strike position if need be.

Your committee wishes to thank you for your patience and continued support and will continue to work extremely hard on your behalf to conclude the best possible collective agreement. They know the hard work you all do every day and what issues are important to you. The committee is bringing those concerns to the bargaining table to represent you all.

If you have any questions or concerns about the bargaining process, please contact your Area VP.