York Region LTC workers picket to stop 12-hour shifts

NEWMARKET, ON –(COMMUNITYWIRE)– On Wednesday July 31, York Region long-term care workers will continue with their weekly midday pickets to oppose a planned schedule change. The Region is introducing a new schedule this fall that includes rotating and 12-hour shifts.

CUPE 905 represents over 550 LTC workers employed at Newmarket Health Centre and Maple Health Centre.

“Working in LTC is such an important job, but it is also physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding,” said CUPE 905 President Katherine Grzejszczak. “Workers want to be at their best to provide the quality care that residents deserve.”

LTC workers have expressed concerns over resident safety, workplace injury and mistakes due to fatigue, increased mental health risks, and inability to care for their own families if their schedule changes. In May, workers delivered a petition to management warning them of these risks.

The collective agreement protects workers from this type of schedule change unless a majority of those impacted approve. The Union held a vote in May where 85% of members opposed the change. The Region has advised the Union they will still proceed with their planned schedule change.

“Forcing a schedule that involves working 12 hours at a time and rotating between different shift times does nothing to fix ongoing staffing needs,” adds Grzejszczak.

Pickets will take place from 1-3 p.m. and continue through the summer at these two locations:

• Maple Health Centre: 10424 Keele St., Maple, ON
• Newmarket Health Centre: 194 Eagle St., Newmarket, ON

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For more information, contact:

Eric Bell, CUPE Communications
306-580-0893
ebell@cupe.ca