Fredericton – As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the results from yesterday’s nursing home strike vote have come in. An overwhelming majority of workers – more than 94% of the 3520 members who were eligible to vote – voted in favor of the strike. Each section, the 46 nursing homes, voted in favor of the strike.

“This is a really strong message from workers to the government and the Employer. Members have not gone on strike since 2001. We hope the government and the Employer, the New Brunswick Association of Nursing Homes, can present a fair offer before the strike begins,” said Sharon Teare, President of the New Brunswick Council of Nursing Home Unions (NBCNHU).

“Government and the Employer must hear residents, their families and the workers. Bring a fair deal to the table so we can solve the ongoing understaffing and workload problems in nursing homes,” added Teare.

Nursing home workers have been without a contract for over 28 months.

“After two years, we have exhausted all other avenues other than strike action. Members held demonstrations, leafleted their communities, lobbied MLAs, did radio and TV ads, and so on. The government and the Employer are leaving us with no choice but to strike,” said Teare.

“Thankfully, residents and their families understand and support us.  We are doing this in order to improve the situation for all.”

Written notice, at least 24 hours in advance, must be given by the Union or an Employer before a lawful strike or lock-out can take place.

The NBCNHU represents 4100 members working in 46 government funded nursing homes throughout New Brunswick. They represent resident attendants, Licensed Practical Nurses, maintenance, housekeeping, activity, rehabilitation, dietary, laundry and clerical staff.