Hundreds of health care workers from CUPE 5430 gathered outside the office of the Member of the Legislature (MLA) David Chan, holding a rally and press conference to raise urgent concerns about the health care crisis in Saskatchewan.
“We are here today to highlight the crisis in health care. Our members are working short, feel disrespected and are leaving the health care profession,” said CUPE 5430 President Bashir Jalloh. “We are rallying today to send a message to this government that it’s time to treat health care workers with the respect they deserve. Bargaining has gone on long enough. It’s time for a fair deal.”
Health care workers took a break from the CUPE 5430 Annual General Meeting to rally for better working conditions and a fair deal. CUPE health care workers have been without a contract since March 2023 and have not had a raise in 3.5 years.
“Our jobs are mentally and physically exhausting. Over the years patient needs have increased and so have our workloads,” said Sandee Michalchuk, an LPN who has worked in health care for over four decades. “It’s time the government recognizes our value and give us a fair contract with the raise we all deserve.”