PROVIDENCE – Unionized care givers have called off plans for a strike after reaching a tentative agreement with Women & Infants Hospital Wednesday.
Members of SEIU 1199, a union representing more than 2,000 caregivers at the hospital, planned to hold an unfair labor practice strike on Dec. 12 after they said Women & Infants management failed to bargain “in good faith.”
Union members, including registered nurses, clerical, environmental service dietary and technical workers, say they have been bargaining since early October. They repeatedly expressed frustrations with what they say is the hospital’s refusal to consider raising wages, protecting union rights and preserving health care benefits. The workers’ contract expired Nov. 30.
Nancy Chandley Adams, a registered nurse in the Lactation Unit and member of the bargaining committee, said bargaining went on for 17 hours and ended early Wednesday morning.
“It has not been an easy road but we are hopeful this allows us a new opportunity for respect and communication between union workers and management to the benefit of our patients," said Chandley Adams.
Meanwhile, hospital managers denied the union's claims. Care New England management said the new three-year contract saves the union’s pension, provides salary increases and “significant contributions” to employees’ retirement.
“We are very pleased that we have reached an agreement on a contract that benefits both our staff and Women & Infants Hospital,” said Shannon Sullivan, president of Women & Infants. “We are ready to move forward with all our colleagues to focus on what is most important: providing outstanding care.”
(UPDATE: Comment from union representative added in 4th and 5th paragraphs.)
Katie Castellani is a PBN staff writer. You may contact her at Castellani@PBN.com.