On the first full day of Saskatchewan’s provincial election campaign, CUPE health care workers delivered hundreds of postcards to Premier Scott Moe at the provincial legislature. The postcards were signed by health care workers during summer outreach across the province.
“The message I heard from the hundreds of health care workers we connected with this summer is clear – they are tired, they are fed up, and they deserve better,” said Bashir Jalloh, president of CUPE 5430. “The postcards send a message to Premier Scott Moe that all health care providers need to be recognized for their invaluable work. That starts with a fair deal with better wages and working conditions.”
CUPE 5430 members have been working without a contract for a year and a half. Bargaining progress has stalled as the employer drags their feet and demands concessions that will make working conditions worse.
“Saskatchewan people will be heading to the polls later this month. We’re calling on health care workers and members of the public to make this a health care election,” added Jalloh. “Our health care system is in crisis and those running to hold office in Saskatchewan need to make health care a priority.”
CUPE 5430 represents nearly 14,000 health care providers working for the Saskatchewan Health Authority and affiliates in five major classifications areas: clerical, technical, nursing, support, and plant operations.