Workers at local retirement residence ink new contract after efficient talks

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on September 3, 2021.

https://www.medicinehatnews.com@MedicineHatNews

Workers at a long-term care home in Medicine Hat have a new contract that boosts wages and benefits after a quick round of bargaining in August, according to the union representing staff at the Revera Meadowlands Retirement Residence.

The United Food and Commercial Workers, No. 401, says that after four days of talks its members ratified a three-year contract with 76 per cent in favour on Aug. 12.

It provides a two per cent pay increase each year as well as an additional $1 per hour increase to base rates immediately and 50-cent base increases in subsequent years.

The official start rate for lowest paid positions is now set no lower than $1 above minimum wage, summer students retain seniority, and several other benefits increase as well.

“We were pleasantly surprised when it turned out quickly and positively,” a release from the UFCW states. “Bargaining was short and sweet, at just over four days of negotiation with the company.”

About 73 UFCW members are employed at the facility, located on Park Meadows Drive in Medicine Hat.